As well as announcing that Google are activating 350,000 Android devices per day, Google’s Eric Schmidt also announced the future of its Android OS for smartphones and gave some details on what will happen with the tablet version of Android, Honeycomb.
Schmidt said that Android Honeycomb and Gingerbread will be merged into one OS which will work on both smartphones and tablets, and this will take place with the release of Android Ice Cream Sandwich.
We have an OS called Gingerbread for phones, we have an OS being previewed now for tablets called Honeycomb. The two of them. You can imagine the follow up will start with an I, be named after dessert, and will combine these two.
The Evolution of Android OS
Android has come a long way since its inception. Initially, Android versions were designed specifically for either smartphones or tablets. Gingerbread was tailored for smartphones, offering features like improved copy-paste functionality, better power management, and a refined user interface. On the other hand, Honeycomb was developed exclusively for tablets, introducing a holographic user interface, refined multitasking, and support for multi-core processors.
The decision to merge these two operating systems into one unified platform, Ice Cream Sandwich, marks a significant milestone in the evolution of Android. This unification aims to provide a consistent user experience across different device types, making it easier for developers to create applications that work seamlessly on both smartphones and tablets.
What to Expect from Ice Cream Sandwich
Ice Cream Sandwich is expected to bring a host of new features and improvements. One of the most anticipated features is the new user interface, which will combine the best elements of Gingerbread and Honeycomb. This means users can expect a more intuitive and visually appealing experience, regardless of whether they are using a smartphone or a tablet.
Another significant improvement is the enhanced multitasking capabilities. Ice Cream Sandwich will allow users to switch between apps more efficiently, thanks to a new task manager that displays recent apps with thumbnail previews. This feature will make it easier for users to navigate between different tasks without losing their place.
Additionally, Ice Cream Sandwich is expected to introduce improved voice recognition and text input methods. This will make it easier for users to interact with their devices using voice commands and will enhance the overall typing experience with more accurate and responsive text input.
There are no details as yet on when this new version of Android that will unite the smartphone and tablet versions of Android will be available. However, the anticipation is high, and many are eagerly waiting for the official release date.
The unification of Android OS is not just a technical upgrade; it represents Google’s commitment to providing a seamless and cohesive user experience across all devices. This move is expected to strengthen Android’s position in the competitive mobile operating system market, making it a more attractive option for both users and developers.
Have a look at our article on Android vs iPhone to see which smartphone and mobile platform is best for you.
via Into Mobile
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.