In the evolving landscape of Android 15, a notable enhancement is the introduction of a more private screen recording system. This update allows users to record or cast a single app, a feature designed to minimize the risk of inadvertently sharing sensitive information. However, a limitation currently exists: if users wish to switch the app being shared, they must terminate the ongoing session and initiate a new one. Fortunately, Google is actively developing a solution that will enable users to change the app being shared without interrupting their screen recording or casting session.
Enhancements in Screen Sharing
The current functionality of Android’s screen sharing system pauses the recording when a user switches to a different app. Upon returning to the original app, recording resumes until manually stopped. In the case of casting, the display on the receiving device simply shows a black screen during the switch. This can be cumbersome for users who frequently need to change the app they are sharing.
While exploring the source code of Android 15, a flag indicating a “task switcher feature for partial screen sharing” was discovered. This internal term refers to the single-app screen recording and casting feature. The strings associated with this new task switcher reveal a promising development:
- Notification Text: “Sharing pauses when you switch apps.”
- Action Buttons: “Share this app instead” and “Switch back.”
Upon enabling this feature, a notification appears when a user starts recording or casting an app and subsequently switches to another app. The notification informs users that sharing will pause during the app switch, providing them with the option to either return to the original app or attempt to share the new app. However, it appears that the functionality for the “share this app instead” button is not yet fully operational.
This partial screen sharing capability was first introduced in the March Android 14 QPR2 update for Pixel devices, but it has since been expanded to all Android devices with the Android 15 update. The latest Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2 update has further refined the screen sharing system by adding a status bar chip that displays the duration of the recording or casting session, allowing users to end the session without needing to pull down the status bar.
While the timeline for the rollout of the new task switcher feature remains uncertain, it is a development worth monitoring in upcoming Android 15 beta updates. As Google continues to enhance user experience, this feature promises to streamline the process of app sharing, making it more efficient and user-friendly.
