Google has announced that it is releasing the final Android 8.1 beta. This is the final preview build of the software before it is released to everyone.
Google will be releasing the Android 8.1 Oreo software update to everyone next month, although the company has not given the exact date in December that the software will land.
Starting today we’re rolling out an update to the Android 8.1 developer preview, the last before the official launch to consumers in December. Android 8.1 adds targeted enhancements to the Oreo platform, including optimizations for Android Go (for devices with 1GB or less of memory) and a Neural Networks API to accelerate on-device machine intelligence. We’ve also included a few smaller enhancements to Oreo in response to user and developer feedback.
Key Features and Enhancements
Android 8.1 Oreo brings a host of new features and improvements designed to enhance the user experience and provide more robust support for developers. One of the most significant updates is the optimization for Android Go, which is specifically tailored for devices with 1GB or less of memory. This ensures that even lower-end devices can run smoothly, providing a better experience for users in emerging markets where such devices are more common.
Another major addition is the Neural Networks API, which aims to accelerate on-device machine intelligence. This API is designed to support machine learning capabilities directly on the device, reducing the need for constant cloud communication and thereby improving speed and efficiency. This is particularly beneficial for applications that rely on real-time data processing, such as augmented reality, voice recognition, and image processing.
Smaller Enhancements and User Feedback
In addition to these major updates, Android 8.1 also includes several smaller enhancements that have been implemented in response to user and developer feedback. These tweaks aim to refine the overall performance and usability of the Oreo platform. For instance, improvements have been made to the Autofill framework, making it easier for users to fill out forms and login credentials across different apps.
Moreover, the update includes enhancements to the notification system, providing users with more control over how and when they receive notifications. This includes the ability to snooze notifications and set different priority levels, ensuring that important alerts are not missed while less critical ones can be dealt with later.
To try out the software, you will need to be enrolled in Google’s Android Developer Program. This program provides developers with early access to new features and updates, allowing them to test their applications and ensure compatibility with the latest version of Android. You can find out more details about how to enroll and participate in the program at the link below.
You can find out more details about the final Android 8.1 beta over at the Android Developers blog at the link below.
Source Android Developers
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