The development of Android 17 is progressing well and, according to Android Authority, a rather puzzling new feature is on the horizon. The update could allow applications to be displayed on the smartphone’s lock screen. This feature is known as Min Mode, or minimalist mode.
It’s important to note that many high-end smartphones already feature Always-On Display technology, which shows the time and notifications on OLED screens while the device is in sleep mode. Google will take it a step further by opening up this possibility to third-party applications.
Android 17 Will Display Your Apps on the Screen in Sleep
While Android 16 continues to be rolled out by manufacturers, particularly Samsung with its One UI 8, Android Authority has uncovered code related to this feature being prepared by its successor. Each application could, therefore, provide an interface when the screen is off—similar to how Google Maps’ battery-saving mode displays navigation instructions with lower brightness and less visual content on the screen.
Android 17 would therefore allow better tracking of VTC arrivals, music playback, or food delivery. There would be no need to fully awaken the screen; sleep mode is sufficient. Developers would then have the option to incorporate this functionality into their applications if it makes sense. The addition would be facilitated through an API directly in Android 17, providing an interface to access what is necessary to enable this display feature on the lock screen.
If Google adheres to its usual timeline, we expect Android 17 to be released in early summer 2026 on compatible smartphones, including the Xiaomi 15T and Xiaomi 15T Pro, which have already been confirmed to run Android 19 and Android 20 respectively.
However, Google will need to optimize this feature as the screen consumes a significant amount of energy. Developers will also have the responsibility to avoid constantly using this feature for unnecessary purposes.
Source: Android Authority
