Google’s biggest developer’s conference of the year opens its doors today, prompting rumors that the next-generation of the firm’s world-leading Android OS will make its first appearance.
Google’s 2014 I/O Conference is to open its doors just hours from now, bringing with it the newest and most important additions to the firm’s hardware and software arsenal. It’s once again expected that things on the hardware side of the fence will be a little on the dry side, but in terms of software there’s reason to suspect something quite significant could be on the cards.
Are we about to see the debut of Android 4.5 Lollypop?
Google hasn’t yet said a word on its future plans for its market-leading mobile operating system, though recent weeks have brought to light dozens of rumors, reports and leaks on the subject. According to the latest roundup of gossip, Android 4.5 will represent one of the biggest shifts in the history of the software, revolutionizing its aesthetic and overall user-experience across the board.
Those claiming inside-knowledge of Google’s plans insist that HTML 5 integration will play a starring role in Android 4.5, as will a generally overhauled primary interface. Something else of key interest to the Mountain View firm is said to be better unification of the Android OS with other platforms and services, which could to some extent break boundaries between Android and iOS or Windows Phone.
In terms of the new user interface, chances are Google will face all manner of copy-cat accusations if the latest reports hold water. A variety of sources have floated the idea that Android 4.5 will debut the most simplified and perhaps the ‘flattest’ user interface to date, which is exactly the description that was given to iOS 7 prior to its arrival. Just like Apple’s latest software, Google is said to be going for something of a minimalist approach with its new-generation OS – something of a step backward to a simple and more user-friendly overall look and feel.
In terms of specifics, icons and navigation bars are likely to be made flatter and less dynamic…again like those of iOS 7. In addition, sources have suggested that a new Google+ navigation bar in bright red will hover in the background. Another refinement could be that of better multi-tasking, allowing for the use of more than one app at the same time by choosing from those running in the background.
Of course, the biggest question of all is that of the hardware Google will use to debut and fully show off Android 4.5 Lollypop. Some insists that the Nexus 6 could make a surprise entrance this week, though for others it seems more likely that the new build of Android has been developed with tablet PCs in mind and will therefore come preloaded on the HTC Nexus 9…another wholly unannounced device.