Android’s phone taskbar isn’t quite ready yet, but it’s already getting a multitasking boost

Multitasking can be a challenge on even the best Android phones due to their limited screen real estate, though software features like split-screen mode and bubbles offer some help. Tablets, in contrast, benefit from a taskbar that significantly eases app switching. We’ve known for nearly a year that Google is experimenting with bringing this tablet taskbar to phones as well. While there’s still no official word on if or when this feature might roll out to phones, a recent tweak we spotted suggests development is actively continuing.

If you’re unfamiliar, the taskbar debuted with Android 12L on large-screen devices like tablets and foldables. Positioned at the bottom, it provides quick access to apps and can be set to display either persistently or temporarily, allowing users to choose their preferred mode.