In conjunction with the solar eclipse in North America, Google revealed the new version of its mobile operating system as Android 8.0 Oreo.
It’s not the first time that a commercial name was used for naming an Android version. Android 4.4 was named KitKat instead of a more neutral dessert like the subsequent Lollipop, Marshmallow and Nougat.
New Features of Android 8.0 Oreo
Long press notification and Picture-in-Picture mode on Android 8.0 Oreo.
Android 8.0 Oreo comes with several new features including a more organized notifications, picture in picture mode, high definition audio through Bluetooth, smarter text selection as well as adaptive icons with notification dots.
It still uses Material Design with a few modifications in the user interface. The majority of changes is with limiting background processes to extend battery life and keep the device running smoothly.
Security issues has been addressed too. A new app called Google Play Protect will scan apps for malicious code and behavior using machine learning.
Availability
Google Play Protect.
Android 8.0 Oreo is now available for download as a software update for Google Pixel and Nexus smartphones enrolled in the beta program.
Meanwhile, ASUS promised an Android 8.0 Oreo update for the recently launched Zenfone 4 series. Other brands will also roll out the new version of the mobile OS in the coming weeks and months. These includes Nokia by HMD Global, Huawei, Motorola, LG, Samsung, Sony and HTC among others.
