For better or worse, Google Maps is the most recognizable navigation app in the business. And as anybody who has used Maps for navigation will tell you, the experience isn’t exactly kind to the battery life, especially if you’re using it for hours on end. Google is now looking to remedy this to some extent with a dedicated battery saver mode.

Reporting by Android Authority has shed light on a “Power saving mode” for Google Maps that will bring about some drastic changes to your navigation experience. Evidence of the feature was found in version 25.44.03.824313610 beta, with multiple code strings detailing how it will work.

“To save battery, press the power button while driving. Only key information such as next turns will be shown,” one of the strings states. Letting users activate the feature with a physical button makes a great deal of sense, particularly when they’re driving, as it saves them the trouble of tapping an onscreen button.

We love the monochrome elements, but it’s not perfect

So how will Google Maps navigation work with the Power saving mode enabled? As you can see from the screenshots above, Google will remove all color from the navigation UI, offering a clutter-free monochrome experience. However, a majority of the text on the map itself, including street names, is gone.

Users will still find the ETA, distance, and time left until they reach the destination at the bottom of the screen. Interestingly, this energy-saving mode will only work when your phone is in portrait orientation, according to the app’s code, thereby making it inaccessible if you’re navigating in landscape orientation.

An illustration of the upcoming power saving mode's activation via the power button on Google Maps
Credit: Android Authority

A visual representation of how Power saving mode is activated

Power saving mode in Maps will work across most modes of transport (walking, biking, and driving). However, Android Authority couldn’t confirm whether it would work with public transit, such as buses or trains. The site notes that Maps will continue to provide audio guidance for upcoming turns when this feature is enabled, so it’s not a complete downgrade from the standard experience.

We can see a lot of utility in this feature, especially if you’re some distance from the destination and your battery doesn’t have much juice left. We also get the sense that this monochrome experience could find a few takers thanks to its minimalist approach to navigation.

What do you make of this upcoming feature?