A recent teardown of Google Play Services has revealed that Android users might soon benefit from a feature similar to Apple's Handoff. The feature, tentatively named "Handoff" in new code strings, could be part of Google's efforts to enhance its ecosystem across multiple devices.
Google Play Services version 25.25.31 beta includes references to features such as task continuation, app and media access, notification syncing, and file accessibility across devices. This suggests a system that enables seamless movement between Android devices while maintaining app and content synchronization.
Prior reports hinted at a feature called "App Cast," which allows app streaming from one device to another. It appears that App Cast will be integrated into the new Handoff system, potentially enabling Android users to initiate tasks on one device and resume them on another linked to the same Google account.
Apple and Samsung already offer similar continuity features. Android users, however, often rely on third-party solutions for device synchronization. The potential introduction of a Handoff feature could make Android devices feel more cohesive and user-friendly.
The Apple ecosystem has enjoyed continuity features for many years now. | Image credit — Apple
Among the potential benefits of Handoff is notification syncing, which could streamline the experience of handling notifications across different Android devices. Additionally, the feature could facilitate file and media sharing between devices.
As Google has not officially announced Handoff, the timeline and device compatibility remain uncertain. However, given its integration with Google Play Services, widespread device support is likely if the feature is fully rolled out.
While Apple and Samsung users have enjoyed similar functionality for years, Google's developments in this area represent a positive step for enhancing the Android ecosystem.
