Android O: Developer Preview Released

Google have released the first developer preview of the next Android OS; Android O.  Google says to expect the full version in Autumn of 2017 (with a proper beta program launching mid-may), but for now owners of the Google Pixel, Google Pixel XL, Nexus 6P, Nexus 5X, Pixel C and Nexus Player can check out the preview.

Screen Shot 2017-03-29 at 13.57.03

So what’s new for Android O?

1. Background limits

New limits on implicit broadcasts (sending “signals” for other apps or activities to act upon), background services (activities of an app that continue to run when it’s not on the screen) and location updates (checking to see where you are using Android’s location services) are automatic.

2. New Notification channels

Android O Google is introducing new Notification channels: grouping notifications together by their type.

3. Autofill APIs

Android O users will be able to choose a source for autofill data, and applications that need to store and retrieve this sort of data no longer will need to act as an Accessibility service.

4. Font resources in XML

Android O promotes fonts to a full resource type.

5. Adaptive icons

Adaptive icons will be supported in the launcher, shortcuts, device Settings, sharing dialogs, and the app overview screen.

6. Connectivity

Changes to connectivity include:

  • High-quality Bluetooth audio through the Sony LDAC codec.
  • NAN (Neighborhood Aware Networking) connectivity using the Wi-Fi Aware specification.
  • Telecom framework

7. Java 8 APIs

Android O supports new Java Language APIs, including the new java.time API introduced with the latest version of Java 8.

Google hasn’t enabled Android Beta support for Android O yet, but whilst it’s harder, it’s not impossible to download the latest OS. Check out Tech Radar’s guide on how to download Android O. Be warned, the new OS is unfinished and glitchy so not something to do on your main device

Share

Tags: , ,