This archive report was first published on 21 May 2020.
Published on May 21, 2020, Google Assistant Ambient Mode is a feature that has been available on Android devices for a while, yet many users are still unaware of its existence.
First demonstrated at IFA 2019, Google quietly rolled out the feature late last year, making it available on a limited number of devices, excluding the Google Pixel lineup.
What is Ambient Mode on Android? ¶
Google describes Ambient Mode as a 'proactive Google Assistant,' moving from an app-based to an intent-based way of doing things.
Think of it like a screensaver, but one that you didn't fully set up, with limited control, and only working under certain circumstances.
How it works ¶
Ambient Mode kicks in when your device is plugged in for charging, allowing the Always-on Display feature to be used economically, displaying information such as calendar appointments, traffic alerts, and more.
It's similar to Daydream, but with limited customization options, and is a handy way to see what notifications you have.
Not all Android devices are made equal ¶
Unfortunately, not all Android devices support Ambient Mode, and it's only available on devices running Android 8.1 Oreo and later versions.
When it launched, the feature was available on smartphones from Sony, Nokia, Transsion, and Xiaomi, as well as some new Lenovo tablets.
Others ¶
While Ambient Mode on Android is the focus of this article, there are other 'ambient modes' available, such as on Android TV and Chromecast devices, and even on Samsung's QLED televisions.
