The Google Maps app on Pixel 10 phones is getting a new feature designed to help conserve battery life during navigation.
There are three main catches you need to be aware of
Navigation apps - whether it's Google Maps, Apple Maps, or Waze - consume a good amount of battery when used. That's because they require constant GPS and internet access, and keep your smartphone display on so you can better follow your route. In fact, whenever I use Google Maps for navigation, I make sure my device is plugged into a power source to avoid draining all my smartphone's juice just on navigation.
Google has introduced a built-in power-saving mode in Google Maps that aims to reduce the battery it consumes during navigation. For now, the feature is available only on the Pixel 10 line, but we hope Google will roll it out to previous Pixel models and other Android phones as well.
Follow these steps to enable this feature on the latest Google Pixel series:
Open Google Maps, tap the profile icon in the top-right corner, and choose Settings
Select Navigation
Under the Driving Options section, turn on the toggle next to Power Saving Mode
Start turn-by-turn navigation, then press the power button to activate Power Saving Mode in Google Maps
Your smartphone will then display a simple, low-power map on the lock screen, showing only the essential details, such as your next turn along the route.
Power saving mode option in Google Maps. | Image by PhoneArena
Google Maps will essentially use the Min Mode feature of the always-on display. For the record, this is a mode used to display a minimal and persistent version of an app's interface that consumes less battery. Instead of the usual colorful visuals, Google Maps will switch to a monochrome theme and will run on a lower refresh rate and decreased brightness.
There are two other things to keep in mind when using this feature. First, it can only be used in portrait orientation. If you try switching to landscape mode, you'll see a pop-up saying that landscape mode isn't available when the power saving mode is on.
Second, the feature is currently limited to driving mode, and it's unclear why Google chose this approach. If you're introducing a power saving feature, why restrict it to only one mode? Don't users who navigate with Google Maps while jogging or riding a bike also want to save battery? We really hope this limitation is removed because it doesn't make sense to confine such a useful concept to a specific navigation type.
Recommended For You
Is the power-saving mode enough to make you choose Google Maps over other navigation apps?
Yes - it will help save battery while navigating.
0%
No - I still prefer other navigation apps.
0%
Definitely a must-have feature
Google Maps' power saving mode is definitely going to be a helpful feature, especially during long trips when you constantly need to check directions. Other navigation apps like Waze and Apple Maps currently don't offer any built-in power-saving mode. However, you can still enable your smartphone's low power mode while using these apps to conserve battery life to some extent.
You also have the option to download offline maps. Although offline maps still require GPS access and keep your smartphone screen on, they do not need an internet connection like online maps. This can help your smartphone offer a better battery life compared to when you use online maps.
Unlimited plans for $15/mo at Mint!
$180
$360
$180 off (50%)
Mint Mobile is also offering an incredible bargain for those seeking unlimited data! The carrier's latest deal lets you grab any unlimited plan for just $15/mo, bringing the 12-month Unlimited plan to $180 instead of $360.
A discussion is a place, where people can voice their opinion, no matter if it
is positive, neutral or negative. However, when posting, one must stay true to the topic, and not just share some
random thoughts, which are not directly related to the matter.
Things that are NOT allowed:
Off-topic talk - you must stick to the subject of discussion
Offensive, hate speech - if you want to say something, say it politely
Spam/Advertisements - these posts are deleted
Multiple accounts - one person can have only one account
Impersonations and offensive nicknames - these accounts get banned
To help keep our community safe and free from spam, we apply temporary limits to newly created accounts:
New accounts created within the last 24 hours may experience restrictions on how frequently they can
post or comment.
These limits are in place as a precaution and will automatically lift.
Moderation is done by humans. We try to be as objective as possible and moderate with zero bias. If you think a
post should be moderated - please, report it.
Have a question about the rules or why you have been moderated/limited/banned? Please,
contact us.
FCC OKs Cingular\'s purchase of AT&T Wireless
Things that are NOT allowed:
To help keep our community safe and free from spam, we apply temporary limits to newly created accounts: