Android P: Features and Differences
Android P is the ninth major release and the 16th version of the Android operating system. It introduced several new features and improvements compared to its predecessor, Android Oreo. Below are the key differences between Android P and its predecessors:
1. User Interface Changes:
* Gesture Navigation: Android P introduced a new gesture-based system for navigation, allowing users to swipe up to access recent apps and use a pill-shaped icon for switching between apps.
* Adaptive Battery and Brightness: The introduction of adaptive battery and adaptive brightness features aimed to improve battery life and optimize screen brightness based on user preferences.
2. Digital Wellbeing:
* Dashboard: Android P introduced the digital wellbeing dashboard, providing users with insights into their device usage, app usage, and the number of times the device is unlocked.
* App Timers: It allows users to set time limits on app usage to promote healthier digital habits.
3. Security and Privacy:
* Enhanced Privacy Restrictions: Android P included more granular control over app permissions, restricting access to the microphone, camera, and other sensitive data.
* Biometric Authentication: Improved support for biometric authentication methods, such as fingerprint sensors and facial recognition, was introduced.
4. Notification Management:
* Notification Channels: Android P offered more control over notifications through the introduction of notification channels, allowing users to manage and prioritize notifications from different apps.
5. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning:
* AI Integration: Android P integrated AI and machine learning more deeply into the operating system, providing features like adaptive battery and adaptive brightness that learn from user behavior.
6. Multi-Camera Support and Other Improvements:
* Multi-Camera Support: Android P introduced support for devices with dual rear or front cameras, enabling developers to access streams from two or more physical cameras simultaneously.
* Display Cutout Support: Android P provided better support for devices with notches or display cutouts, optimizing app and display behavior accordingly.
7. Enterprise Features:
* Work Profile: Android P improved the work profile experience, making it easier for users to switch between their work and personal profiles while keeping data separate and secure.
8. Performance and Power Efficiency:
* Performance Enhancements: Android P included optimizations to improve overall system performance and reduce input latency for a smoother user experience.
* Power Efficiency: The operating system aimed to be more power-efficient, extending battery life and optimizing system resources.
9. API Level and Developer Features:
* Android Runtime (ART) Improvements: Enhanced ART runtime in Android P aimed to boost app performance and make apps launch faster.
* Neural Networks API 1.1: Android P introduced the Neural Networks API 1.1, offering developers more flexibility and improved performance for on-device machine learning operations.
Conclusion
Android P brought significant improvements to the Android operating system, focusing on user experience, privacy, digital wellbeing, and performance optimizations. Its introduction of gesture navigation, digital wellbeing features, AI integration, and security enhancements marked a notable step forward in the evolution of the Android platform.