subject: Various Versions Released For Android [print this page] What is Android? What is Android?
It is an operating system that is used on smart phones, lap tops, tablet computers and so on. Android mobile applications are a group of software that includes operating system, key applications and middleware. With an open and flexible Android development platform Android developers will be able to build rich, innovative and interesting applications. Google took over the Android Inc in 2005 and thereafter released android code under the name of Apache License. Android developers write the applications in customised version of JAVA. This was listed as the best selling Smartphone application in 2010 by the Canalys and still the most sought after android mobile applications.
Features:
Android Mobile Applications comes with loaded features that are sure to take the android developers by storm. The features include:
Better connectivity using CDMA, Blue tooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, WiMax, GSM, LTE etc
Android push messaging service which is a part of Android Cloud to Device Messaging Framework also known as C2DM
Supports numerous human languages
Adapts to both traditional smartphones as well as VGA, 2D graphics, etc
Contains web browser based on WebKit, Chrome's V8 Java script engine which is the best
Is capable of multi tasking and multi touch options
Supports hardware like touch screens, accelerometers, barometer, magnetometers, pressure sensors, thermometers, 3D graphics and many more
Also supports tethering that helps in the phone being used as wireless Wi-Fi spot
Recent Releases and their added features:
There have been various versions of android mobile applications that have been released with the intention of fixing some particular bugs of previous version and also adding to the list of new features. The various versions show the continuous android development that makes the component and its features customer friendly and flexible enough for easy and efficient usage. The following are the latest versions of android:
2.3 Gingerbread
Better user interface
Enhanced copy/paste features
Improved gaming experience
Supports SIP
Also supports Near Field Communication
3.0 Honey comb
New User interface features
Adapts to larger screen devices
Supports multi core processors
Supports hardware for better graphic presentation
3.1 Honey Comb
Has enhanced input devices
Books Applications
Google Movies compatibility
USB host mode that enables transfer of data from cameras and devices directly
3.2 Honey comb
Supports many android powered devices
Provides Zoom to fill screen compatibility mode
Provides better control for the developers in display functionalities
Supports transfer of media files directly from SD card
Improved screen support API
4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich
Facial recognition unlock facilities
Controls and monitors network data usage
Supports unified social networking contacts
Enhances the photography features
E-mail searching made possible even offline
NFC feature for information sharing
Future Trend
The extensive uses and packed without standing features Android has brought about a revolutionary change in the mobile industry. Android has been gaining the lion's share in the market growth as against its competitor RIM. The Gingerbread version of Android has been at the top position with over 38.7% share as per the reports in October. With the latest in the pipeline that is Ice Cream sandwich Google is planning to write off the front facing buttons and go in for a simple screen with headphones and power button.
