Android L – What’s New?

Since its first release in 2008, Google’s Android operating system has appeared in different flavors with regular and frequent updates. In 2014, the OS has been given its biggest update yet. Although no proper name has been given to the new version so far, it is being called Android L for the time being. With its official preview on 26^th June 2014, the final release of the OS will take place shortly afterwards this year.

The Salient features of Android L are listed below. This is what is going to be new for users as well as app developers.

• A drastically improved user interface owing to some major tweaks.


• Battery life enhancement feature.


• Cross platform support.


• Much improved application integration.


• Options for app developers for upgrades as well as new creations.

The First Android L Device

In the midst of a plethora of rumors regarding the new Android OS, a number of speculations have been made about which device will do the honors of launching Android L. So far, the best guess is pointing towards Nexus devices. Android L might run on the upcoming Nexus 6 phablet. Alternatively, the OS will make a more sublime debut through the awaited HTC Nexus 9. This is an 8.9 inches tablet in the making with premium features on the list. It may be released under the name Volantis or Flounder.

Android L VS the Old Android

The major changes which make Android L stand apart in comparison to the old Android are discussed below.

• Material Design

Android L features Google’s material design. It is going to turn app windows into a cards-like display with assigned elevation values. This is going to be very useful as the user interface will automatically add animation effects, such as drop shadows.

• Animated Touch Response

Unlike the old Android’s flat interface, the new OS is going to bring animated touch response. This advanced feature is interesting as well as exciting. As a user touches a button on the screen, an animation will appear promptly to let him know that he has pressed the button successfully. Similar animations will appear when a user switches from one app to another.

• Improved Notification System

An improved notification system in Android L is going to make it more convenient to check notifications without having to quit an app. This is known as pop-up notifications. For instance, while a user is playing a game, using a social networking app or is in the middle of a call, pop-up notifications will be received without having to interrupt the call or app.

• Better Device Performance

Android L is going to contribute towards the performance of the device which is running the OS. This will be accomplished through features like 64-bit computing and Android Extension Pack with PC level graphics.

• Enhanced Battery Life

Unlike the old OS, Android L is also capable of automatically enhancing the longevity of battery life. Google’s Project Volta incorporates a battery saver which automatically switches a device on battery saving mode upon detecting a low battery level. This can lead to as much as ninety extra minutes with an otherwise dying battery.

There are plenty of other improvements in the exciting Android upgrade. This is definitely going to offer competition to Apple’s upcoming premium iOS 8.