Google tests three small Android changes that could make a big difference

Google is piloting a trio of minor Android enhancements in the latest Canary build, aimed at tackling common user frustrations. Two of these refinements focus on curbing accidental app transitions and simplifying the sharing of HEIF photos, whereas the third streamlines Health Connect's data source identification. Presently, if one swiftly swipes upward and subsequently drags their finger diagonally without releasing it from the screen, Android might erroneously transport users to the previous app rather than opening the Recents overview.

The Google team's remedy seeks to thwart these inadvertent app switches. In Android Canary 2610, rolled out late October, the Android crew is trialing new gesture angle thresholds. As outlined by Mishaal Rahman on X, the new Canary iteration introduces altered gesture angle thresholds, rendering quick diagonal swipes (15°–45°) more dependable at launching the recents overview, while flatter horizontal swipes (less than 15°) continue to open the app switcher.

Though a minor tweak, it promises a smoother user experience, particularly in time-sensitive situations. A second minor upgrade in the latest Android Canary release empowers users to transcode HEIF/HEIC images to JPEG on-the-fly within the Android Photo Picker. Although Android embraced HEIF years ago, several applications still lack native support for this more efficient image format.

When attempting to share an HEIF image via these apps, compatibility issues can arise. To address this, Google has introduced a 'Use supported format' toggle in the system photo picker of Android Canary 2610. This enables users to swiftly convert images to JPEG via a tap, facilitating seamless sharing with non-HEIF-compatible applications.

However, ideally, Android should automatically convert HEIF images to JPEG in the background when the recipient app lacks HEIF support. This workaround addresses a pain point for power users, as most consumers might not comprehend why an app fails to open a photo that appears perfectly fine in their gallery. Lastly, the latest Android Canary build offers a noteworthy boost to Health Connect.

Users can now trace the origin of Health Connect data by tapping on individual entries. For those juggling multiple fitness and health apps, this feature provides clarity on the source of any erroneous or misleading data. Currently, Google is evaluating these subtle tweaks within the Android Canary channel, with no assurances regarding their eventual integration into the stable OS version or the timeline for such implementation.