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Android 16 could introduce standby mode similar to iOS

According to a report, some hidden code within the Android 16 beta suggests that Google may introduce a feature reminiscent of Apple's StandBy Mode. This option would allow devices in standby to showcase various content on the device's display when it is plugged in to a charger, and set in a horizontal position.

Standby mode on Android 16 is expected to display a full-screen clock, photo frame, widgets, on compatible devices. But, there's more. Android Authority reports that the recent release notes from Google mentioned a new feature for phones that will allow users to use "Cast on standby-friendly devices". This likely means that Android is adding a different version of the tablet-exclusive Hub Mode, which you can see in the screenshot here, for Android phones.

Google is probably adding the option to Cast to phones that support magnetic charging. Here's why. Standby mode needs the device to be in a horizontal orientation, but it's not easy to charge a phone when it is held sideways, but what if you didn't need a wired charger. Unlike MagSafe technology that is used in Apple's iPhones, magnetic charging hasn't been available on Android until last year, on the HMD Skyline. More devices are said to be adopting the standard, which could have motivated Google to bring standby mode for Android.

Qi2 wireless charging, which is the standard for magnetic charging, is said to be coming to a Samsung Galaxy device this year. Google may also add support for Qi2 in the upcoming Pixel 10 devices that could be launched in August 2025.

Google is bringing lock screen widgets to Android 16, and these widgets are part of Android's Hub Mode that could be added to Android's standby mode. It could be one of many features that are being baked in to Android 16, which has been codenamed as Baklava. The next gen operating system offers Advanced Protection to prevent USB-based attacks, Identity Check, etc.

Android 16 is expected to be launched during Google I/O 2025, which is scheduled to start on May 20.

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