Owners of Pixel 10 smartphones relying on them for real-time driving guidance instead of standalone GPS units now have access to a new Google Maps enhancement. This battery-conserving feature has launched for the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold models. Google revealed it earlier this month within the November 2025 Pixel feature update.
The energy-saving option functions exclusively in vertical mode and operates from the lock screen. Activating the power button during navigation shifts the interface to a basic black-and-white design that keeps the essential map overlay, similar to the subdued theme in Uber's mapping, according to reports from 9to5Google.
The display focuses solely on critical trip information, including the upcoming maneuver and estimated arrival duration. Non-essential data like vehicle speed is removed. Users can still pull down to access alerts.
Pressing the power button again or touching the display restores the full interface. Navigation automatically exits the energy-saving state upon reaching the endpoint.
According to Google, this mode could prolong the Pixel 10's battery duration by as much as four hours, proving useful for extended road trips without convenient charging while the device is secured to the vehicle's console. The simplified visuals might also contribute to safer driving by reducing visual clutter.
The company anticipates extending this capability to additional hardware in the future, though its current restriction to the Pixel 10 family is notable. It remains possible that a version of this minimalistic design could appear in the Android Auto edition of Google Maps eventually.
Google activates the energy-saving mode automatically through a server-side update. Those preferring to deactivate it can do so via the app's settings menu under Navigation, then Driving options, by disabling the relevant switch.