When does Android require a foreground service for BLE scanning?
Android usually needs a foreground service with a visible notification for long-running BLE scans used for reconnect or multi-device discovery. Brief scans on active setup screens can stay in activity scope. Document which flow uses which pattern so QA tests notification channels, dismissal, and OEM restrictions. For example, a gateway finder running for ten minutes should not depend on a hidden background scan.
Published August 2026 · Last technically reviewed August 2026
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