At the established Google I/O developers conference that begins today, June 25, 2014, Google is expected to present the next version of the operating system of the majority of smartphones and tablets around the world.
Android 5, which is rumored to be called Lollipop - it will start with an L, after all - is said to feature a completely new design, based on the Quantum Paper design -you can read more about the UI changes at AndroidPolice.com.
Lollipop will also make it easier to run multiple tasks in parallel, the so-called multitasking. An example provided by Forbes.com is that the user will receive a notification of a new email from Gmail, will be able to view it and reply without being transferred to the Gmail app.
Following the Apple iPhone 5S, the first 64-bit smartphone, Google is reportedly adding support for 64-bit architecture, allowing for higher-capacity RAM.
Following the practice adopted by Apple with HealthKit, Google is also expected to add to its operating system its own suitcase of measurements that will be collected from apps that accompany bracelets/wristbands and smart watches to monitor key health and wellness parameters, such as heart rate, blood pressure, sleep, weight, data from fitness exercises and more.
Android 5 is also said to consume less energy, putting less strain on device battery life. Google Now is also expected to be enhanced to deliver short, useful information in addition to sports scores, stock prices, public transport information or scheduled appointments.
Smartphones and tablets running the next version of Android will have a so-called kill switch, meaning they can be rendered useless if reported stolen. The way this is said to be implemented is by blocking the ability to reset the phone/tablet to factory settings, a process that makes the phone look like new by deleting everything personal to its owner.
Finally, Google is expected to unveil a new prototype “Nexus 8” tablet, also known as Volantis, an 8.9-inch tablet made by HTC that will run the nascent version of Android 5 Lollipop. In addition to HTC’s Nexus 8, manufacturers are expected to be ready to release new smartphones and tablets with Lollipop during the holiday season at the end of 2014.
Source: tech.in.gr
