in this guide One of the most powerful hidden multitasking features of Android for a long time has been Freeform Windows. This feature allows users to run apps in floating, draggable, independently resizable windows, which is similar to a desktop environment. Even though Google has removed this feature on Pixel devices running Android 16 without making much noise, it is still entirely possible to bring back Freeform mode by using safe system-level commands.
This manual offers a detailed and thorough method for turning on Freeform Windows again on any recent Pixel handset. Besides, it gives you some advanced tips, support with troubleshooting, and some optional enhancements.
What Are Freeform Windows and Why They Matter on Pixel Devices
Freeform Windows enable the software to be run in a movable, floating container with a user interface that can be independently resized, rather than the traditional fullscreen or split-screen modes. If the feature is turned on correctly:
- Applications will be alive in the background even if the user does not pay attention to them
- There can be several windows which are floating next to each other
- Any window size can be adjusted separately
- The user interface is very similar to a desktop one
- The feature is perfectly compatible with Android’s hidden Desktop Mode
The main advantage of this is a much more flexible multitasking by the use of a Pixel, for instance, with an external display, keyboard, or mouse.
Why Freeform Windows Disappeared on Android 16
Google took away the Freeform toggle from Developer Options, and the flag systemwide was turned off with Android 16. The company has not given a public explanation yet, but the feature is still there in the framework of the OS and can be turned on again through ADB global settings.
This means that the feature can be used by anyone who has a PC, a USB cable, and knows the right commands.
Necessary Conditions Before Re-Enabling Freeform
Make sure of the items below before you proceed with the commands:
1. Android SDK Platform Tools Installed
Download the latest version of the platform tools package and unzip it wherever you want on your computer.
2. USB Debugging Enabled
On your Pixel:
- Open Settings > About phone
- Tap Build number seven times
- Go back to System > Developer options
- Turn on USB Debugging
3. A USB Data Cable
Make sure the connection is good enough to prevent the command from being interrupted.
Step-by-Step Guide to Enable Freeform Windows
1. Connect Pixel to PC
Connect the device with the USB cable, and if the RSA debugging prompt shows up, click OK.
2. Open Platform Tools Directory
From the location where you have unzipped the SDK folder, open Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (macOS/Linux).
3. Apply the Required ADB Commands
Execute the below commands one by one:
adb shell settings put global enable_freeform_support 1
adb shell settings put global force_resizable_activities 1
They both reset the internal freeform flag and logically force enabling window resizing for all apps.
4. Launch Freeform Windows from Recents
- Access the Recents Overview
- Press long the icon of any app
- Tap Freeform (now back)
- The app you have chosen will open in a floating, resizable window
Advanced: Optimizing Freeform Windows for Desktop Mode
If you use Freeform Windows with Android’s experimental Desktop Mode, you get a desktop-class UX. To take full advantage of it:
• Connect an external monitor via USB-C
Most Pixel phones are capable of DisplayPort-over-USB.
• Connect a keyboard and mouse
That greatly facilitates window manipulation.
• Turn on Desktop Mode flags (optional)
adb shell settings put global force_desktop_mode_on_external_displays 1
• Use third-party launchers intended for desktop layouts
This step multiplies the productivity factor by a few more points.
Troubleshooting Freeform Window Issues
Freeform Option Not Appearing
- Power the device off and on and attempt again
- Check if Developer Options are still enabled
- Make sure the ADB commands did not produce any errors
Apps Opening Only in Fullscreen
Some apps may have their orientation fixed forcibly; generally, Freeform override can fix this, but an older app may still behave that it is inactivated.
Windows Closing Automatically
Turn off battery optimization for the apps that are of major importance to you underSettings > Apps > Battery > Unrestricted.
Safety Notes and Reversing the Changes
The ADB commands that were used do not root your device nor change your system partitions, or void warranties. To disable Freeform functionality, simply execute:
adb shell settings put global enable_freeform_support 0
adb shell settings put global force_resizable_activities 0
Final Thoughts
Pixel devices, in particular, benefit from a significantly enhanced multitasking experience with Freeform Windows, which is great for creators, power users, and anyone who is just experimenting with the new Desktop Mode environment. Although Google decided to remove the direct toggle, it is quite simple, secure, and totally compatible with Android 16 and later builds to bring back the functionality.
After completing the instructions mentioned earlier, the users of Pixel will be able to use one of the most versatile and productivity-boosting features of Android once again.