The interface element responsible for managing and switching between recently used applications in Android Pie is a key feature of the operating system. It presents a card-based layout displaying previews of each open application, allowing users to quickly navigate back and forth between them. For instance, a user might be composing an email, then seamlessly switch to a web browser to research a topic, and then return to the email application, all through this interface.
Its incorporation streamlined multitasking, offering a more visually intuitive and efficient method compared to previous iteration. Benefits include improved user experience through faster app access and reduced navigation time. Historically, this represented a significant departure from older Android versions, where app switching was often less direct and required more steps. This improvement directly contributes to device usability and overall user satisfaction.