Google surprised everyone by announcing the release of the developer preview version of its latest mobile operating system, Android N. Unlike before, you no longer need to unlock the bootloader and flash the latest system files. This time around, Google has simplified the process of installing the developer preview version via OTA (over-the-air) update. While Google hasn’t named the Android version yet, it brings in a bunch of new features and performance improvements in tow. Let’s take a closer look at the new features of Android N.
Multi-window support: As the name suggests, the multi-window feature allows you to run two apps side-by-side, both on your smartphone and tablets. This isn’t actually a new feature as Samsung had already implemented it on its Galaxy smartphones. However, now with native support, all smartphones and tablets running Android N OS will have this feature. It is important to note that Apple introduced a similar split-view multitasking feature on iOS 9, but it is only compatible with the iPad Air 2, iPad Pro and iPad mini 4.
Inline notification reply: Google has also updated the notification centre on Android N with inline reply. Users will be able to reply to text messages right from the notification panel, without having to open it. There will also be an option to archive and snooze the notifications. A part of new RemoteInput API on Android N, developers can take advantage of to bring this feature to their individual apps too, such as WhatsApp, Telegram messenger, Hike Messenger and more.
Background optimizations to doze mode: Google introduced Doze feature in Android 6.0 Marshmallow to conserve battery life. This feature puts the background apps into hibernate mode when the smartphone is left untouched for a long time. With Android N, the Doze mode will also work when your screen is turned off. Google is also working to reduce the amount of memory Android OS needs, thus saving on more on battery life.
Project Svelte: It focuses on optimizing the RAM usage in an effort to minimize the memory used by the apps and the system. Project Svelte aims to optimize the apps that run in the background. Proper handling of background apps can not only speed up the Android device but also help in conserving battery life hogged by apps.
Improved data saver: The data saver mode comes in handy when you are accessing the Internet using a mobile data plan. In Android N, the data saver mode is now available device-wide and users don’t have to set any threshold limit when the data saver feature should get activated. After activating the data saver mode from settings, the system blocks background data access to apps, which will help save data consumption. However, users can also whitelist specific apps to allow background data, even on metered connection when Data Saver is turned on, so you can rest assured that important apps like email, messengers and others are not disconnected.
Scoped directory access for greater control: There are plenty of apps that need access to specific directories on the external storage. For instance, a photo editing or gallery app needs access to Pictures and DCIM directory. While Android Marshmallow got new ‘app permission’ feature, Android N will further presented users with a simplified UI, by asking if they want to grant access to particular folder on internal storage.
Picture-in-picture and TV recording: PIP (picture-in-picture) is a multitasking feature for Android TV users. With the (PIP) mode, users can run a video in pinned window while running another app in the background. TV recording feature on Android N is built on top of the existing time-shifting APIs. It allows users to control the channel data that can be recorded, how the sessions are saved and also playback the content from Android TV input services.
Number blocking: Android N adds native support for number blocking, allowing users to keep the unwanted callers at bay. Once a number is blocked, users won’t receive any tests or calls from that number. The blocked numbers will persist through your Google account and same will be applied when you switch or reset your device. Google has added a separate API to allow multiple apps use the same blocked number list.
Call screening: Call screening feature allows the phone app to screen incoming calls. When users get an incoming call, besides rejecting it, users can also ensure that that number does not show up in the notification or call logs.
Always-On VPN: Android N also gets support for always-on VPN. When a user starts work related apps, the system will automatically start them via VPN they are configured for. To set always on VPN, users can head over to Settings > More > VPN.
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