Google Maps to introduce a minimalist power-saving mode on Android to conserve battery

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For most smartphone users, Google Maps is still the most recognisable navigation app. However, over the past few years, the app’s battery consumption has been criticised a lot, especially if one is using it for long hours to reach a destination. Thankfully, Google is now looking to solve this problem to some extent with a dedicated battery saver mode, which will show the bare minimum of information to conserve battery life.

Google Maps to get a new power-saving mode: Key details

According to a new report by Android Authority, Google Maps is preparing to unveil a new feature on its Android application in the form of a ‘Power saving mode.’ As the name suggests, the new mode will limit the app to show the necessary information, where the interface becomes monochrome and extremely minimalistic.

Evidence of the feature was found in version Google Maps 25.44.03.824313610 beta, with multiple code strings detailing how it will work. The report adds that to activate this power-saving mode, Google Maps users need to press their phone's power button. Subsequently, Google will remove all colour from the navigation UI, offering a clutter-free black and white experience, with only the map and the navigation cursor being visible.

Further, according to the app's code, this energy-saving mode will only work when the phone is in portrait orientation. Currently, the standard dark mode in Google Maps has a blue tint, and with this black and white setup, users will only see the arrow, the ETA, how much time they still have to go, and the distance left. We can see a lot of advantages with this feature, especially if there is time to reach the destination and the phone’s battery doesn't have much juice left.