multitasking experience

AppWizard
August 21, 2026
Google has introduced a new multitasking feature called "App Handles" in the Pixel 11 Pro Fold, which enhances user experience by providing a dedicated dock for floating windows. Users can drag apps to the bottom-right corner of the display to create floating windows that remain accessible while overlaying other tasks. The feature utilizes an intuitive swipe-up gesture to activate the app, allowing for easy switching between multiple apps stored in the corner. When the display is closed, apps set up as "Handles" turn into "Bubbles" on the cover display, maintaining accessibility. This functionality complements the existing side-by-side multitasking capability and offers a more organized approach to managing applications. There is potential for "App Handles" to be integrated into previous Android generations through future updates.
AppWizard
August 7, 2026
Google has introduced a new feature called “App Handles” in its latest Android Canary build, designed for foldable devices like the Pixel Fold series. This feature allows users to manage applications more flexibly by pinning them to the taskbar for quick access without disrupting the main content on the screen. Users can open apps, such as the Calculator, in a pop-up window while using other applications in full-screen mode. The feature supports multiple apps simultaneously, indicated by a “+” button next to the app icon. Currently, “App Handles” is available only in Android Canary build 2608, with plans for broader rollout in future updates.
AppWizard
August 2, 2026
Android 17 introduces App Bubbles, allowing users to create floating bubbles for apps on their screen for easier access while using other applications. Samsung Galaxy phones have a similar feature called Pop-Up View, which offers a more refined multitasking experience with resizable, floating windows. Pop-Up View allows users to interact with multiple apps simultaneously without disrupting the primary app, making it useful for tasks like watching videos while chatting. Users can access Pop-Up View through the Recents menu, a swipe gesture, or the Edge Panel. The swipe gesture is preferred for its speed, though it may require practice. Pop-Up View supports individual window resizing and maintains visibility of app contents in the background, unlike App Bubbles, which can obscure the screen.
AppWizard
July 16, 2026
The latest Android 17 QPR1 Beta introduces an update to the taskbar functionality, replacing predicted apps with a display of the most recently used applications. This change benefits foldable device users by locking in the last two active apps, improving productivity. Mishaal Rahman confirmed this enhancement, which aims to provide a more predictable user experience and simplify navigation. The feature is currently in testing within the QPR beta track before a broader rollout.
AppWizard
June 20, 2026
Android 17 introduces the Bubbles feature for Google Pixel phones, enhancing multitasking by allowing users to manage up to five apps simultaneously. Users can create Bubbles by long-pressing an app icon, and the feature integrates into the Taskbar on devices like the Pixel 10 Pro Fold. However, compared to Samsung's One UI, Bubbles has limitations, such as lacking the ability to freely move and resize windows. The Pixel 10 is the first phone to run Android 17 and will receive six additional Android OS upgrades in the future.
AppWizard
June 16, 2026
The June Pixel Drop has introduced the Bubbles feature, allowing users to open up to five apps in floating bubbles for easy access without switching away from the current app. Users can activate this by long-pressing any app icon, which opens it in a small floating window that minimizes into a bubble when tapped outside. This feature is particularly useful for messaging and media apps. On larger devices like the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, app bubbles are organized in a dedicated bubble bar for easier multitasking. The Bubbles feature has officially rolled out to all Pixel devices running Android 17, following its availability in the Android 17 beta. User feedback has been mostly positive despite some minor issues. The June Pixel Drop also introduces other features such as Screen Reactions and new Gemini models.
AppWizard
May 23, 2026
Software experience significantly influences smartphone appeal, with Google's Pixel series noted for its seamless interface. The recent Android 17 introduces features like app memory limits, enhanced controls, and improved location transparency, leading to the installation of its beta version on the Google Pixel 10a. A poll on multitasking preferences revealed that 17% prefer split screen, 57% switch between apps, and 27% barely multitask. The introduction of the bubbles feature in Android 17 enhances multitasking by allowing users to pin up to five apps simultaneously, facilitating quick access and seamless transitions between tasks. The user's setup includes Instagram, WhatsApp, Chrome, Slack, and YouTube Music, promoting a balanced work-life integration. The Pixel 10a is characterized by a flush camera design, good performance and battery life, strong cameras, and a promise of excellent software support. It features the Tensor G4 chip, a vibrant 120Hz display, and is priced at .99, with a commitment to seven years of software updates.
AppWizard
May 16, 2026
Book-style folding phones combine the compactness of smartphones with the capabilities of tablets. The Motorola Razr Fold features impressive multitasking options, though many are not activated by default. Users can access the taskbar by navigating to Settings > Foldable display > Task Bar > Always show, allowing for seamless app launching and split-screen use. The outer screen can also support app splitting, but it's less effective due to its size. Optimizing the Overview menu enhances multitasking by switching to grid view. These features significantly improve productivity, making the Razr Fold a valuable tool for users.
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