Energy-efficient navigation with your Pixel
Earlier, Google Maps presented a new energy-efficient mode for Google Maps. The feature, which is only available for Pixel-series smartphones, allows you to use black and white mode for navigation display. The most important information will be displayed on the screen when you press the power button while navigating. You will then see the new battery-saving mode. With a tap on the screen, you get the familiar overview again with all the colours and bells and whistles.
In the black and white view, you see the most important information. For instance, the line with the route is shown, but you also see the remaining time, kilometres and arrival time. Navigation instructions such as taking an exit or turning left, for example, are also shown, in the familiar place. Other information such as the speed limit, your own speed, reporting an accident and so on is not available in this mode. Thereby, the option in Google Maps is only there for car navigation, and does not work while walking, public transport or cycling.
Whether the feature will also come to non-Pixel devices is not clear. The feature was introduced with November's Pixel Feature Drop. If you have a Pixel, it will be available from now on.
