Google Maps could be getting an update that will allow people to share their battery life status with friends.
Tech reporters spotted code for the new feature hidden within a beta - or preview - version of Google Maps that began rolling out for Android this week.
It could mean that location sharing within the app will soon display battery and charging stats, technology blog Android Police said.
The feature would only show a generic range, such as "Brian's battery level is between 50 per cent and 70 percent and is charging".
But it could prove useful if a friend's phone is running low on charge on the way home from a night out.
However, the feature has yet to show up on the front end of the app, Android Police added.
The new Maps code also indicates further updates including a shortcut function that means people can save their favourite public transport stations.
It could be some time before the changes show up in an app everyone can use, if they appear at all.
Hidden code is found within multiple app releases and can get cut if it does not function as expected, according to Engadget.
The code was found in Google Maps v9.71 beta.
