If you guessed Android L would be called Lollipop like I did, then you probably saw this coming. Google finally unveiled and announced the official name for Android 5.0 which has been under the nickname Android L to be “Lollipop” on the 15th of October, 2014. As you would expect, Google kept up the legacy of a dessert naming system for the android operating systems.
It’s now obvious that the Android 5.0 Lollipop would be preinstalled on the Nexus 6 (a big screen smartphone by Motorolla) and Nexus 9 (an 8.9inch tablet by HTC) devices while the Nexus 4, 5 and 7 would get it as an update. For other device, it would be rolled out as an update sooner than you expect and of course, it will come with no charges as the previous updates have been.
HTC made some announcement that Lollipop would be rolled out to their HTC One M8 and M7 devices within 90 days of the official announcement, which would push your Android 5.0 for both devices to around the end of 2014 or early 2015.
What’s New?
Material Design
Everyone is going flat on design these days and Android L isn’t gonna be left behind. Since this operating system is going well beyond the mobile phone to the tablet, TV screen, watch and even the car, a better design that would well express animations has been rolled out this time. It is best explained as “A bold, colorful, and responsive UI design for consistent, intuitive experiences across all your devices” by the android official website.
Notifications & Lock Screen
The notifications has been improved way beyond your imaginations. You can now get your notifications on your Lock Screen, you no longer have to worry about your calls disrupting your Video or Gaming activities as you would be able to continue doing what you are doing or pick the call. You can even prioritize notifications and respond to messages directly from your lock screen.
Security
This update comes with SELinux enforcing for all applications. This means that you get even better protection against vulnerabilities and malware. You can make use of the Android Smart Lock feature to secure your device by pairing it with a trusted device like your wearable.
Runtime and Performance
Android 5.0 has claims of up to 4 times better performance experience, a smoother running User Interface for complex and visually rich applications. Most of all, it now supports 64 bits devices just like the iPhones and your desktop CPUs.
Others Include
- A battery saver feature that extends you power to up to 90 minutes.
- Screen pinning: pin your screen so another user can access just that content without messing with your other stuff
- New Quick Settings at the top of the screen now includes, flashlight, hotspot, screen rotation and cast screen controls, easier switch toggles for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and location and you can easily adjust your device’s brightness all from one place.
- USB Audio support for USB Microphones, Speakers and even mixers.
- An improved “OK Google” feature that works even if your device’s screen is turned off. This would only work on devices that support Digital Signal Processing.
- New features for android TV such as voice search for Youtube and Play store supported apps.
Isn’t the Android Lollipop 5.0 such a great OS. Infact, it’s the one mobile operating system we’ve all been waiting for and here it is. I would keep you updated with more on Android L here. In the meantime, the below video is to celebrate android and you!