- Google is working on a new “robust open/close detection” setting that improves your Pixel Fold’s ability to tell whether it’s open or closed.
- This feature will help when you’re using magnetic cases, which can interfere with the Pixel Fold’s hinge angle sensor.
- However, Google warns that this mode increases battery usage.
One of the most appealing features of foldable phones is their dual screens. When you want a larger canvas to see content on, you can unfold them and use the inner display. When you want something a bit more pocketable, you can fold them and use the outer display. Android seamlessly transitions between both displays thanks to a sensor that measures the hinge angle, but magnetic cases or accessories can interfere with that sensor, making it harder for the OS to detect when you’ve opened or closed your foldable phone. Fortunately, Google is working on a solution to this problem, at least for its own foldable phones.
With the release of the second beta of Android 16, Google has updated the Pixel System Services application with code that suggests a new “robust open/close detection” setting is in the works. Robust open/close detection “helps your Pixel Fold more accurately detect if it’s open or closed.” You’ll want to enable this feature “if you’re using a magnetic accessory” due to the aforementioned interference issues. However, Google warns that you should turn this off if you’re no longer using a magnetic accessory as it can increase battery drain.