Last month, Google unveiled the first stable version of Android 16, introducing a variety of new features. One standout addition is Live Updates, designed to deliver real-time notifications directly to the lock screen of Android devices. The company has since elaborated on the capabilities of this feature, which can be integrated into apps that facilitate services such as phone calls, ride-sharing, and food delivery, but explicitly excludes advertisements or promotions.
Understanding Live Updates in Android 16
Live Updates draws inspiration from Apple’s Live Activities feature, providing notifications for ongoing activities that have a clear start and end time. The primary focus of this feature is to keep users informed about time-sensitive notifications rather than past events, according to Google’s developer page.
Practical applications of Live Updates include features like active navigation through maps, real-time tracking of food deliveries, and monitoring of ride-share services—all available through their respective Android applications. These notifications will appear on the lock screen, offering users updates such as estimated arrival times and tracking information.
Google noted that this feature allows users to check the status of ongoing activities without the need to unlock their devices. For instance, during navigation with Google Maps, users will see direction prompts on the home screen, while Live Updates on the lock screen will provide the current status of the trip and further navigation details.
Developers integrating Live Updates must ensure that the notifications are strictly for activities initiated by the user and should only be displayed when the task necessitates ongoing user attention.
Google has outlined scenarios in which Live Updates are inappropriate. The feature is not to be utilized for advertising, promotional content, chat messages, calendar events, or alerts. Developers may opt for other system elements like standard notifications for these cases. Additionally, Quick Settings tiles and app widgets can be leveraged for faster access to app functionalities.
Nonetheless, there are certain exceptions. If users purchase tickets for flights or concerts in advance, or register for any time-sensitive event, Live Updates may be activated, but only when the event is approaching.
