As usual, the annual event of Google I/O is always used as a
moment for introducing a new version of Android, this year Google has just announced
the presence of Android M - which according to rumors will be named Macadamia
Nut Cookie when it is officially released later.
Indeed Android M is still a Developer Preview, but we've
been able to know some features that will be brought, Google itself emphasizes
that Android M is more focused on the improvement of various aspects rather
than carrying brand new features.
App Permissions
Previously, when downloading applications from Google Play,
you will be required to provide access to various functions of smartphone or
tablet to the app. In the Android M, the app permissions have been simplified
to make it more easily understood.
Basically, the app permissions in the Android M are similar
to the one in iOS; you will be asked to provide access when an application
wants to activate certain functions. For example, WhatsApp Messenger will ask
for permission to access the microphone when you want to convey the voice
message.
Through Settings, the Android M users can set any
application that can access a function (microphone, camera, location, contacts,
etc.), or otherwise, any function that can be accessed by an application.
Chrome Custom Tab
In the Android M, an application now doesn't need to be
equipped with in-app browser to be able to open the link. Switching app to
Chrome or other browsers is also not needed anymore. A Custom Chrome Tab will
appear at the top of an application when the Android M users open the link.
This feature not only saves time, but also more efficient about the resource
usage.
App Links
Talking about the links, Android M will allow you to switch
from one application to another without having to display the 'Open with'
window as we often see during this time. For example, when you tap the Twitter
link in your Gmail, Android M will recognize it automatically and takes you
directly to the Twitter app - which previously has been installed.
Android Pay
Both the name and the function are very similar to Apple
Pay. Android Pay is the latest digital payment system from Google. All devices
which are running with Android 4.4 KitKat and equipped with NFC can make
transactions using Android Pay. However, if your device is running with Android M, there is an additional exclusive feature, i.e. authorization via fingerprint
scanner.
Fingerprint Support
Through Android M, Google will provide support to the
fingerprint scanner sensor as standard. In the future, your fingerprint doesn't
only serve to unlock the lockscreen, but also to buy content on Google Play or
make transactions by using Android Pay.
Power Management
Google apparently hasn't been satisfied with the Project
Volta that's presented by Android Lollipop. In the Android M, they increase the
battery efficiency through a feature called Doze.
Doze utilizes the device's motion sensor to detect whether
the device is being used or not. When the device is not in use, Doze will be
active, make the device 'asleep' more soundly, but still agile when there is an
emergency alert.
Google claims that the standby time of Android M can be
twice more durable than the Android Lollipop due to the Doze feature.
Furthermore, Android M also introduces the USB Type C support; it also becomes
a strong signal that the next generation of Nexus devices will pack this
bidirectional USB port.
In the Android M, when the users plug the USB Type C cable
to the device, a window will appear with a wide selection of modes. From here
the users can choose whether the device will be charged, or it will be used to
charge other devices, plus a file transfer mode.