Google has now released Android O Developer Preview 4. This is expected to be the final build before the official release of Google’s new mobile OS.
The official release of Android O is expected sometime next month. The official line from Google is that it is coming this summer.
What’s New in Developer Preview 4?
Developer Preview 4 is a release candidate build of Android O that you can use to complete your development and testing in time for the upcoming official release. It includes the final system behaviors, the latest bug fixes and optimizations, and the final APIs (API level 26) already available since Developer Preview 3.
One of the key features of this preview is the inclusion of the final system behaviors. This means that developers can now test their apps against the same behaviors that will be present in the final release. This is crucial for ensuring compatibility and performance. Additionally, the latest bug fixes and optimizations make this build more stable and reliable, providing a near-final experience of what Android O will offer.
Final APIs and Support Libraries
We’re releasing the Developer Preview 4 device system images today, together with the stable version of the Android 26.0.0 Support Library. Incremental updates to the SDK, tools, and Android Emulator system images are on the way over the next few days.
The final APIs (API level 26) are a significant milestone for developers. These APIs allow developers to take full advantage of the new features and capabilities of Android O. For instance, the new notification channels, picture-in-picture mode, and autofill framework are all accessible through these APIs. The stable version of the Android 26.0.0 Support Library ensures that developers can use these features while maintaining backward compatibility with older versions of Android.
Key Features of Android O
Android O introduces several new features aimed at improving the user experience and enhancing performance. One of the most talked-about features is the new notification channels. This feature allows users to customize the types of notifications they receive from different apps, giving them more control over their notification experience.
Another significant addition is the picture-in-picture mode, which enables users to continue watching videos in a small window while using other apps. This multitasking feature is particularly useful for users who like to consume media while performing other tasks on their devices.
The autofill framework is another noteworthy feature. It simplifies the process of filling out forms by automatically populating fields with user data. This can save users a considerable amount of time and effort, especially when dealing with repetitive tasks like logging into accounts or filling out shipping information.
Performance Improvements
Android O also brings several performance improvements. The new background limits feature restricts the amount of resources that background apps can use, which can lead to better battery life and improved overall performance. This is particularly beneficial for users who have multiple apps running simultaneously.
The new OS also includes enhancements to the Android Runtime (ART), which can result in faster app performance and reduced memory usage. These improvements make Android O a more efficient and responsive operating system.
With the release of Developer Preview 4, Google is one step closer to the official launch of Android O. This preview provides developers with the tools and information they need to ensure their apps are ready for the new OS. The final system behaviors, latest bug fixes, and optimizations make this build a reliable and near-final representation of what users can expect from Android O.
You can find out more information about Android O Developer Preview 4 over at Google at the link below.
Source Android Developers, GSM Arena
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