Android N includes code to support running apps in separate windows

Android N’s code contains references to a function to run apps in windows. The function is not yet usable. The code could indicate that Google wants to bring Android to desktops and laptops, something that was previously rumored.

Ars Technica found references to the function, which appears to be called ‘freeform windows’ in system files such as framework-res.apk and systemUI. The windows get ‘close’ and ‘maximize’ buttons, indicating that it works like windows in regular desktop operating systems. Google mentions the feature in its developer documentation for Android N.

The feature is not yet active in the first preview of Android N, which Google put online last week, an employee of the company says. The feature will be reserved for larger devices, according to the documentation, but it’s unknown what devices must comply with. Android N does include a split screen mode.

The windows could be a prelude to Android on desktops and laptops, something for which Google would like to merge its operating systems Android and Chrome OS. There is already a fork of Android with windows, Remix OS.

Remix OS. Image: Ars Technica