Android 16 Beta users are experiencing the new Live Updates feature through Google Maps, marking the app’s pioneering use of this real-time information system. Similar to Apple’s Live Activities, this Android functionality provides ongoing updates in the status bar, initially showcasing navigation details within Google Maps.
As detailed by Android developers, Live Updates offer a new notification type designed for continuous monitoring of key activities. Android Authority reports the feature’s presence in Android 16 Beta 2.1, displaying time to next turn and estimated arrival within the status bar while navigating with Google Maps. Expanding the notification panel reveals a larger, dynamic update directly from the app.
These prominent notifications appear below the media panel yet above other notifications, facilitating quick access to directions without excessive scrolling. For those preferring a less intrusive experience, a “Show live info” toggle within Maps’ notification settings allows users to disable the feature. This setting controls the persistent display of live information on both the status bar and lock screen.
Currently limited to Android 16 Beta, Live Updates is anticipated to expand to other apps, particularly with the official Android 16 release expected this summer. This new feature promises a more dynamic and informative user experience, seamlessly integrating real-time data into daily app usage.
