Foldable devices, such as the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, will not be able to utilize the on-device windowing feature in Android 16. This limitation means that users of these devices won’t be able to run apps in floating windows directly on their screens.
Instead, the new desktop-style interface offered by Android 16 will only be available when these devices are connected to external displays like monitors or TVs. Presently, the functionality for windowing on built-in screens is exclusively reserved for tablets.
Google clarified this situation in a response to Ars Technica, indicating that multitasking with freeform app windows on phones and foldables is not an option at this time. Consequently, the capability to use Android’s desktop interface while utilizing the device’s internal display will remain unavailable until further updates arise.
Additionally, even support for the external-display windowing feature may not be universal among all larger handsets. It is up to individual manufacturers to decide whether their phones will support the Desktop Mode functionality.
While Pixel devices may provide this capability on external screens, others could be limited to basic mirroring functions without any enhanced features. Despite this setback for foldable users, Android 16 emphasizes improved support for larger screens.
Apps designed for the update will become resizable by default, enhancing the display experience on both tablets and foldables. Although this change is becoming a requirement, developers can temporarily opt out until the arrival of Android 17, while games remain exempt from this rule.
In conclusion, while on-device windowing for foldables might not be immediate, it appears likely that this functionality will eventually be introduced as consumer demand continues to grow.
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