We love the fact that Google’s Android updates, no matter how incremental, usually bring a ton of good stuff along. And the first Honeycomb update hitting Verizon Motorola Xooms as we speak is no different. Not only does it bring Google’s new movie rentals, but it also adds a handy dandy USB host mode that will let you connect the vast majority of USB devices to your tablet, including external USB drives, digital cameras, and dare we say it, other Android tablets. Also Xbox and PlayStation controllers apparently, which should see an emulation renaissance on the system if nothing else.
New Features and Enhancements
Add to that a new Movie Studio editing app, a new Books app, resizeable widgets, faster browser and all that other madness. The Movie Studio app is particularly noteworthy as it allows users to edit videos directly on their tablets, making it easier to create and share content on the go. The new Books app integrates seamlessly with Google’s eBookstore, providing a vast library of reading material at your fingertips. Resizeable widgets offer a more customizable home screen experience, allowing users to adjust the size of their widgets to better fit their needs and preferences.
The faster browser is another significant improvement, offering enhanced performance and quicker load times. This is particularly beneficial for users who rely on their tablets for web browsing and online activities. The update also includes various under-the-hood optimizations that improve overall system stability and performance.
Impact on Google TV and Other Devices
The news also came down that this will be hitting Google TV this summer, but no word on a release date for the rest of the tablets, not even for the Galaxy Tab 10.1 Google was handing out for free at the event. The integration of these updates into Google TV is an exciting development, as it promises to enhance the functionality and user experience of the platform. Users can look forward to a more seamless and feature-rich experience when using Google TV.
Also, we really wouldn’t want to be those Notion Ink boys right about now. The competition in the tablet market is fierce, and with these new updates, Google’s Android platform is setting a high bar for other manufacturers to meet. The addition of USB host mode, in particular, is a game-changer, as it significantly expands the versatility and usability of Android tablets. Users can now connect a wide range of peripherals and accessories, transforming their tablets into more powerful and multifunctional devices.
For those interested in how Android stacks up against other mobile platforms, take a look at our article on Android vs iPhone to see which smartphone and mobile platform is best for you. This comparison provides an in-depth analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of both platforms, helping users make an informed decision based on their needs and preferences.
The first Honeycomb update for Verizon Motorola Xooms brings a host of exciting new features and enhancements that significantly improve the user experience. From movie rentals and video editing to USB host mode and faster browsing, this update has something for everyone. As we look forward to these updates rolling out to other devices and platforms, it’s clear that Google’s commitment to innovation and user satisfaction remains as strong as ever.
Source Android Developers
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