Google is reportedly developing a new Android API referred to as Rich Ongoing Notifications, which would enable apps to display concise information in a status bar, similar to Apple’s Live Activities in the Dynamic Island feature on iPhones. Journalist Mishaal Rahman identified this development in the Android 15 QPR1 Beta 3 release. This functionality may operate similar to the existing time tracker for phone calls, featuring a small text bubble at the top of the display that users can tap to access more details through the app.
In an article for Android Authority, Rahman explains that the API will allow apps to create customizable chips with unique text and background colors, residing within the status bar. This could be particularly useful for applications involving transit updates, enabling users to monitor important details such as departure times or an Uber’s estimated time of arrival while engaging with other apps. However, the feature is still in development and may not be available soon. Rahman anticipates that it might be introduced with Android 16.
