Android 17 may let you see apps on your always-on display

Yesterday we covered the news that Google Maps was testing a monochrome-colored power saving mode for those times when you need directions, but also want to save power. It seems that wasn't the whole story, as it seems Android is prepping for something much larger than just that.

According to a report from Android Authority, Google could be prepping a "Min Mode" for persistent and low-power app experiences using the always-on display.

A new way to use your always-on display

The always-on display (AOD) is a feature on a lot of Android phones that keep the display constantly active, using simple black and white layouts to display the time, or a brief snapshot of new notifications.

As noticed yesterday, Google Maps is testing a new low-power mode toggled with the power button. Turn the screen off, and Maps shifts to a monochrome color scheme with a minimalist interface that just shows your turns, and none of the additional extras you'd otherwise expect. It's a battery-conserving mode meant for driving, when you don't have any way of charging your phone as you go.

We'd assumed that was all she wrote for that particular feature, but it seems there was much more to the story. Instead, it seems like Google Maps was just an outrider.

Code discovered in the always-on display's section of Android’s SystemUI references "Min Mode", which is seemingly a way for apps to use the AOD to display an ongoing process. Google Maps' directions would only be the start — it could potentially be used to see how far away your Uber is, your Doordash order, or even a low-powered TV remote app.

Always-on displays are something you either love for the convenience of it, or hate for being a waste of battery power. Personally, I fall into the latter camp, but if Min Mode is a real feature, then I could be forced to rethink my dismissal of the feature. Min Mode could be the breath of fresh air that AOD needs to keep it relevant, and I'm always in favor of anything that promises to boost my battery savings.

When might we be seeing the first wave of these roll out? It's unfortunately not clear at this stage, though Android 17 is the most likely time for it to release. If it's ready in time, expect Google to make a lot of it in its Android 17 announcement.