Google began the announcement as usual by talking about Android’s growth over the past year. Sr. Vice President at Google Sundar Pichai said Android now has more than 1 billion active users per month. The company showed off new design style for all of its products, alongwith Android version codenamed “L” that may be arriving this fall.
Android One
Google is making its efforts to reach people who so far haven’t been able to afford a smartphone with Android One, which is a new pool of hardware reference platforms designed specifically for developing markets, using stock Android and low-cost parts. The first devices will arrive this fall in India brands like Micromax and Karbonn, starting at less than $100.
Android ‘L’ Developer Preview
Android’s upcoming version L release features a new cross platform UI named Material Design, which offers app developers more precise tools to make customized typography, grid and color changes.
One of the more prominent changes is to the notification system. Now, you’ll be able to access your collection of notifications directly from the lock screen. This new version of android will also improve performance by making the ART engine the default, alongside a new Battery Saver mode. The multitasking interface is also getting improved with a new card-based design.
Google’s New Makeover ‘Material Design’
This new design is an evolution of the conventional flat, card-oriented interface with added depth and animation to every UI element. Each individual piece of the design is being treated like it’s a virtual object that exists in 3D space. Despite being flat and digital, they have behaviors, layers, and react when touched. This looks like a cool and a nice idea.. It is expected to see this design on all Google products soon. Have a look.
Android TV
Google back within TV entertainment with Android TV, which lets users watch live TV or stream content. As you may aware of Google earlier attempt in this sector with Google TV. This time, with Android TV you can also enjoy gaming by bringing Play store games to the big screen. Content from Android device to the Android TV can be easily casted. You can use voice queries to search for content.
Android Wear
Google demonstrated its Android Wear SDK which is now available to download. With touchscreen UI you can easily swipe across Google Now cards and access the supported apps from the connected smartphone. You can also create notes, reminders, alarms with ‘OK Google’.When you install an app from the Play store on the phone, a wearable addon will also be installed synced with the main app.
Android Auto for Cars
Google is bringing some of its best features to your car. Android Auto is a platform which will allow you to plug your phone into your vehicle and car-friendly controls for key apps. The UI will cast on the car’s screen with quick shortcuts to location searches, suggestions and navigation.Use your voice commands and get information on your car completely hands-free !
Google Fit Platform
Nowadays, Health and fitness are trending all over the tech world with many other companies launching new platforms. By jumping into this with Google Fit platform which will allow users to track fitness data and sync it across all devices. It is an open, multi-OS API for fitness apps and devices. Partners include Nike, Adidas and Withings.
Also, there were some chromecast updates.
That’s almost all major from Day 1 at Google IO 2014. Excited for Day 2.
