Using Android 16 Beta, you can get live updates displayed on Google Maps here’s how
With Android 16 arriving sooner than anticipated, it appears to be a more incremental update, placing significant emphasis on Google’s AI model, Gemini. However, one noteworthy addition that users might find particularly exciting is the introduction of Live Updates. According to Android Authority, this feature has already surfaced in the Android 16 beta 2.1 for Google Maps.
Live Updates serve as Google’s response to Apple’s Live Activities, which debuted with iOS 16. The feature provides real-time updates by pulling crucial information from apps, such as tracking a delivery from order placement to final arrival. Android 16 is expected to roll out in the second quarter of this year, earlier than its usual third-quarter release. This aligns with Google’s new strategy of accelerating feature rollouts by introducing two SDK updates annually-one major release in mid-year and a smaller update toward the end. The anticipated launch timeframe places Android 16 around June.
For those with a compatible Pixel device, the feature is available for testing. On iPhones, Apple’s Live Activities are accessible through the Dynamic Island, lock screen, or a paired Apple Watch. Android’s implementation, on the other hand, integrates Live Updates as a chip within the notification bar, providing real-time status updates directly from an app. While this initial version may not yet match the depth of Apple’s offering, it marks a positive step forward for the Android ecosystem.
Users running the latest Android 16 beta (2.1) and the most recent Google Maps version should be able to experience the feature firsthand. Engaging in turn-by-turn navigation within Google Maps will trigger a compact chip displaying essential details, such as estimated time until the next turn or arrival time at the destination. Testing the feature on a Pixel Tablet revealed that minimizing the navigation overlay caused the chip to appear. Tapping it brought up a pop-up with the current navigation step.
Though Live Updates aren’t entirely groundbreaking, they introduce a practical enhancement for Android users, making it easier to track deliveries, rides, and other time-sensitive updates.
