Google has released the first developer preview for Android 11, the next version of its mobile operating system. It’s the earliest Google has ever done a preview like this, so the updates here aren’t that front-facing, but reveal some interesting details like improved support for 5G, better privacy features, and new messaging interfaces that will power the majority of Android phones in the months to come.
The most interesting new Android 11 features
Though there isn’t any confirmation on what the finished form of the OS would look like come the time of its full release later this year, we have a glimpse of some features as listed below.
Chat Bubbles
This one has been talked about for some time now, and with Android 11, Google may finally bring support for these to smartphones around the world. These would essentially be Facebook like chat heads that will allow users to interact with multiple conversations enhancing the overall accessibility. It’s a new UI for messaging apps that let you keep several conversations easily accessible anywhere through a floating bubble.
New Conversations
With the new mobile operating system, there will be a dedicated conversation tab in the notifications panel which will allow users to access the most recent messages. This will also act as an improved way to respond to messages from the notification panel as it will also allow users to send images directly from the notifications. The idea is to make the communication parts of your phone more accessible because, well, it’s a phone, and that’s what it does — help you talk to people.
Dark Mode scheduling
With Android 10, Google introduced smartphone users to Dark Mode, and now with Android 11, it will make it easier for users to schedule Dark Mode as per their preference. This feature should come in quite handy to a lot of users as it would allow them to switch dark mode depending on the time.
Privacy and Permissions
Google has been focusing heavily on introducing privacy-centric features, and now with Android 11, the OS will be adding one-time permissions for locations, microphones, and cameras to better safeguard the users’ privacy.
Google explains that with the feature in place, Android 11 will be able to give permissions to an app for a single-use, and thereby take it back from it once the action has been completed. It’s a simple addition, but one that makes Android a lot more secure.
Airplane Mode without Bluetooth
With Android 11, devices will now be able to access Bluetooth even if they are in Airplane mode. This feature has been one of the most requested ones in the recent past, and will now allow the continued usage of the device’s Bluetooth chip with connected devices even when you go into Airplane mode.
Support for 5G and foldable phones
Google’s upcoming software will also be bringing support for newer standards in technology, including 5G and foldable phones. The operating system thus is expected to help drive the industry forward by helping provide a platform for these newer technologies to thrive on.
There are also plenty more changes that are simply under the hood, like better support for folding, waterfall, and pinhole displays, 5G integration, scoped storage, and more. However, this a very initial version so we have to wait for what we’ll be getting later at the year-end.
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