Google Pixel Fold and Tablet now let you force apps into specific aspect ratios

Google has a new December 2023 security patch for the Pixel family of devices that brings the stable Android 14 QPR1 update and a big Feature Drop. While all eyes might be on the flagship Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, there are also some little but useful additions for other devices too. For instance, the Google Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet are receiving the ability to force apps into a specific aspect ratio so as to fit on the large screen accordingly.

The feature was first spotted in Android QPR1 beta back in September, and now it’s rolling out to users on the stable channel. On the Pixel Fold and Tablet, it’s now possible to force an app into full screen, half screen, or 16:9 (on tablets) aspect ratio. But according to Google, this feature is still under testing or rather “experimental.”

To force an app into any of these aspect ratios on your Pixel Fold or Tablet, head to Settings > Apps > Aspect ratio. Alternatively, you can access it from the App info menu.

The Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet are Google’s first attempt at big screen devices in years. At the time of release, users were forced to use apps like Instagram in annoying letterboxed windows that didn’t take advantage of the screen real estate on these devices. Of course, this was because many Android apps don’t play nicely with big screens. But this finally ends with the latest Pixel Feature Drop, although the fact that it’s still an experimental feature suggests there could be more in store.

Here’s a video of the feature in action shared by Brian MacDuff on X.

Since it’s a core OS feature, other tablets and foldable devices will likely receive it in future possibly with Android 15.

Featured image: Google