Google I/O 2015 : The Android Ecosystem

Google I/O 2015 : The Android Ecosystem  

Android M

Google just announced the next version of Android, currently dubbed Android M, during the Google I/O

Google’s Dave Burke said this version of Android is focused entirely on “quality end to end,” with the central theme solely on improving the core user experience. So, basically, squashing bugs and improving performance overall. While last year’s Android Lollipop was about introducing a new design, animations and more intuitive UX, Android M is all about making Android more functional on a granular level.

   App Permissions

Google's new App Permissions system narrows the list of permissions an app can request down to Location, Camera, Microphone, Contacts, Phone, SMS, Calendar, and Sensor. Apps will have to ask before having access to these functions, and users will be able to grant or reject access. This access point is a one-time exchange, meaning if you say yes the app will have access every time you go to use it. Should users decide to revoke access or take a look at the total number of apps that have access, Google's applications section has been changed to make these things quick and easy to look at and adjust. 

 

These permission policies will only apply to apps being made against the most recent version of the Android API versions, which means your current apps or apps that haven't updated in a while follow these same guidelines.

 Power Management

Android M will introduce a great new power management feature, Doze, which will help improve power management. Doze can identify when a device is not being used, and the device will automatically dial back on the power needs. When not in use, apps will update less frequently, and in tests they have been able to show nearly double the battery life in standby time thanks to this feature.

 Android Pay

Google also introduced Android Pay, which will use NFC and host card emulation. Burke explained that Android Pay is all about “simplicity, security and choice.” The new service is going to be installed on new devices available through AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile, and will work with American Express, Discover, MasterCard and Visa—that means Android Pay will be accepted in 700,000 stores in the U.S.