New Update to Help Users Manage Battery Consumption
Google is introducing a feature to help identify for users those applications that drain their phone's battery. Starting March 1, 2026, the Google Play Store will show warnings when people view apps deemed to use too much power. The move aims at helping users make better choices before they install or update an application.
Testing and Implementation
The company had tested this feature in partnership with Samsung. In the course of these tests, Google studied how different apps affected battery performance. After months of analysis, it decided to roll out the feature globally.
How the Feature Works
Smartphone users commonly use dozens, if not hundreds, of apps each day. Many run in the background, gradually sucking up battery life. First, Google will warn developers about such apps. Failure to comply means the Play Store will reduce the app's visibility and will show a warning to users before they can download or update it.
An app will be flagged as battery-draining if it runs in the background for more than two hours within a 24-hour period. There will be clear exceptions, though, such as apps that play audio or transfer files, since they are expected to stay active longer.
Why This Matters
The most significant concern for smartphone users is battery life. Most users adapt their settings or limit their usage to prolong the battery time; however, certain apps still consume all the power in the background. Through Google's new system, the user will have more control and transparency into how apps are affecting battery performance.
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