Android and ChromeOS devices may become best friends in the near future as Google is reportedly working to better integrate the two platforms.
The signs of this movement were discovered by an industry expert MountDebugging in X (the platform formerly known as Twitter) which recently dove into the files of Google Play Services version 24.06.12. After activating several internal flags, he discovered that two new features are currently being developed and that certain sections will be renamed to better accommodate the changes. As 9To5Google points out, Device Connections will be renamed Devices & Sharing, and there's a new option called Cross-Device Services.
By tapping the section for the first time, users can choose the Android phones and Chromebooks they want on their multi-device network. There doesn't seem to be a limit to how many devices you can have connected at the same time. It also appears that you can send mass invites to nearby hardware during this time. Once setup is done, you will be given access to the aforementioned features. Please note that it is not known exactly how these tools work, although there are brief descriptions below each one that offer a bit of information.
Services between devices in Google Play Services ✓ Call Cast ✓ Wifi Sharing ✓ Hotspot Sharing Can be enabled in the next beta version of Play Services. Screenrecord is from version 24.06.12, enabled with many flags. #Google #Android pic.twitter.com/bvUbnYbB9dFebruary 9, 2024
Call Cast probably allows you to jump between devices during calls, however, it “only works with certain apps.” Internet sharing, on the other hand, is more confusing. Judging by the text on the screen, it will give users a way to share their hotspot connection and Wi-Fi password with member devices in a group. It saves you the hassle of having to re-enter your password every time you want to add another phone.
Imminent launch
That's pretty much all we can glean from this latest info dump. Given the fact that AssembleDebug was able to trigger the update and the near-finished status of the interface, we think it's safe to say that the patch will be rolling out fairly soon. It's unknown exactly when it will be released, but Android Police in its coverage predicts that it will launch next month for Google's March feature presentation along with other updates. These include the eSIM transfer tool plus Bluetooth quick setup.
As with every leak, take all the details with a grain of salt. Things could change at any time. That said, if released as is, it would be a great update to the current mobile environment. Chromebooks already offer connectivity between Android devices, but it's mostly limited to app streaming. Improving usability in this way could allow Google to finally establish an Apple-like hardware ecosystem.
In the meantime, check out TechRadar's roundup of the best Chromebooks for 2024.
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