The presentation of the beta version of the updated Android OS took place, and some users have already managed to test the system on their smartphones. The full name of the platform is still kept secret. However, an overview of the new features of Android N 7.0 and their comparison with iOS is available.
Google has presented to advanced users and developers a test version of the Android N 7.0 operating system, which is noticeably different from version 6.0 and is already able to compete with the latest iOS. In total, four main functions can be distinguished, which are more related to the performance and optimization of the new OS.
Dual window view of applications
Android N 7.0 users will be able to work in parallel with 2 open programs, placing them on the screen at their discretion. In this case, the mode of adjusting the height and width of windows will be available, it will be possible to drag files and information from one window to another. There is no need to switch between applications, and you can replace them at any time. This is very convenient when you need to outline or save information from any browser page by opening notes in the lower or upper half of the screen. In iOS 9, this feature is present, but it is not available for all Apple products. For Android TV, the two-window mode will function as a picture-in-picture, when a small additional window with the required application will be displayed on the main screen with a video or game.
Improved notification shade
When you tap from top to bottom, a strip with icons and a ribbon with notifications appear on the screen. A short press on any interface icon displays more complete information about it, and a long press sends the user to its settings. The panel with icons can be customized for yourself, choosing more relevant phone functions. This feature has not yet been implemented on other platforms and may only appear in iOS 10.
Updated notification system
In addition to new themes, the overall informativeness of messengers and social networks on the lock screen and in the notification curtain has increased. Users will be able to see avatars in front of messages and more quickly respond to contacts. Also, you can not only swipe the notification, but also adjust its importance using the gear when sliding to the right. Similar notifications will be grouped, combining messages from different clients (mail, whatsapp, facebook and others) into one block. Using the buttons located under the message, you can immediately respond, hide or archive a contact without leaving the notification curtain. This feature has been available in the iPhone since the eighth version of iOS.
Intelligent Settings Screen
When you open the menu, not a general list of settings will be available, but more relevant items and information about the device. A complete list of settings can be called up from the left edge of the screen. There is now a setting for saving traffic for certain applications and a function of night mode with the ability to automatically turn it on at a specified time.
Other updates include the appearance of a power saving button while working in a browser. The developers have also improved the Doze system. Now it will turn on instantly after the phone goes into sleep mode, optimizing the level of energy consumption and limiting the device's access to the Internet.
A very useful addition can be read the presence of an emergency button on the phone's lock screen. By clicking it, you can see the name of the owner of the phone, his blood group, various medical contraindications and other information that can help a person in emergency situations. To quickly switch between the two applications in Android N, just double-click the button with a square in the lower right corner of the phone. This function is completely similar to the Alt + Tab keyboard shortcut in Windows.
In general, the speed of loading applications and turning on the camera is faster than in version 6.0. However, in terms of main indicators, the beta version of Android 7.0 is still inferior in performance to iOS 9.3. It is hoped that by the date of the official release, which is scheduled for the fall of 2016, the developers of Android N will be able to optimize all elements of the system.
If you are not a developer, then you should not install the beta version on a working smartphone. In addition to many updates, users may encounter various system bugs that have yet to get rid of in the process of finalizing the new OS.
