**Google Reportedly Developing Smarter Always-On Display to Improve Pixel Battery Life**
Google is reportedly working on a new option for its Pixel phones’ Always-On Display (AOD) that could help extend battery life. According to a recent report by Mishaal Rahman from Android Authority, a deep dive into the latest Android Canary build reveals that Google is enhancing the AOD to be more intelligent about when it stays active.
### What’s New with Pixel’s Always-On Display?
The upcoming AOD update is designed to track a user’s “activity” to decide whether to keep the display on or turn it off in order to save power. Rahman highlights a new string in the latest Canary build that describes the feature as: **”power down the display when no user activity is detected to save power.”**
Currently, Pixels already disable the AOD when the phone is in a pocket or placed face down. However, this new feature may go further by leveraging sensors to detect if the user is nearby or actively engaging with the device.
### How Could “Activity” Be Detected?
The term “activity” could involve several factors. For example, the Pixel’s proximity sensor might be used more extensively to monitor if the user is close to the phone or moving around. It might also detect if the device has been picked up recently to check notifications.
This approach means that if a user leaves the room and forgets to disable the AOD, the display would automatically power down after recognizing the absence of activity. This could prevent unnecessary battery drain and help users avoid returning to a nearly dead phone.
### The Importance of Improving AOD Battery Usage
Always-On Display is a convenient feature but is notorious for consuming significant battery power. Google’s rumored update reflects an effort to refine this experience by making the AOD smarter and more efficient, aligning with user behavior to conserve energy.
### About Android Canary Channel
Google introduced the Android Canary channel this past summer as a way for developers to explore early API builds and provide feedback. Similar to the Chrome Canary channel, it offers a glimpse into new Android features before wider release. However, Android’s Canary builds tend to be updated less frequently—typically once a month.
Currently, much attention is on Android 16 tests, which recently advanced to QPR2 Beta 3. This beta includes a variety of user-friendly enhancements such as a new home screen app shortcuts button and improvements to Live Captions. The Beta 3 patch brings numerous fixes based on tester feedback, indicating Google’s commitment to refining its software.
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Stay tuned for more updates as Google continues to enhance the Pixel experience, especially with innovations aimed at balancing convenience and battery performance.
https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/google-pixel/your-google-pixel-might-get-a-smarter-always-on-display-that-helps-its-battery