Important points
- Google is considering a feature called “bubble anything” for Android 16.
- ‘Anything Bubble’ allows users to turn any app into a floating bubble to enhance multitasking.
- This feature was discovered in the APK teardown of Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2.
Turning apps into bubbles sounds like a novelty, but Google is reportedly fully committed to the idea. Android 16 There’s a good chance it will include a feature called “Bubble Anything” that allows users to turn any app into a floating bubble.
related
Android 15: Availability, timeline, and new features in QPR1 Beta 2
Android 15 QPR1 is taking shape
This potential upgrade was spotted within Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2, hinting that the feature may be coming to Android 16 (via Android Authority). Once enabled, a “bubble anything” button will appear in the target app’s context menu within the Pixel Launcher. Tap this and the app will turn into a floating bubble.
I’ve seen floating bubbles before.
Source: Android Authority
Facebook Messenger has long featured floating bubble chats, or “message heads.” These bubbles allow users to easily switch between messages without interrupting their current activity.
Google tried a similar feature in Android 11, but it was limited to conversation notifications and required an app to support it. Many app developers have chosen not to do so. This caused no one to use it anymore.
Samsung also has a floating bubble feature called “Smart Pop-up View.” It allows you to float selected apps in a window on your home screen, making it a great productivity tool.
Powerful multitasking tools for phones and tablets
Now, Google wants to take Bubbles to the next level by extending it to all apps. This can greatly enhance multitasking. Combined with Bubble Stashing, this can be a killer feature. Bubble stashing is a feature that allows users to minimize bubbles on the edges of the screen to free up space.
“Anything Bubble” is abnormal on tablets. This feature could potentially do the same thing on tablets as windowing does on desktops. A dedicated bubble bar turns your Android tablet into a portable productivity beast.
Of course, “any bubble” has not been confirmed. This was discovered in a random APK teardown, and Google has a strange history with this kind of thing. The company could either discontinue this feature or surprise everyone and roll it out in a minor update.
But the potential for “everything to bubble” with Android 16 is exciting. This could be a great way to multitask. However, the first thing you need is Android 15 Now that you finally have access to your device, you can get excited about next year’s updates.