When Google released Android (based on the Linux kernel) a few years back, the realm of possibilities for mobile operating systems doubtlessly expanded in a massive manner. The embedded user-friendly interface not just made corresponding to real-world actions facile through its touchscreen, but also revealed great possibilities for manipulating on-screen subjects.
However, despite the several benefits that Android provides as an operating system, it has in recent times revealed a slew of security flaws - causing significant security concerns for users worldwide. This is absolutely obvious for any Operating System to have some security issues or bugs; but there are some unacceptable security issues within android which is really a bad sign for Google considering its current market penetration. In this circumstance, other operating systems like iOS and Windows have been pegging away at strengthening the security blanket for their mobile devices, Android seems to be either stuck or struggling with its security vulnerabilities.
Listed below are some security flaws that Google’s widely popular Android OS has been trying to deal with of late, however: we hope the OS soon overcomes its weakness, and provides users with an enhanced, more secure user experience.
The Certifi-gate mRST flaw
One of the most troublesome flaws that have attacked Android of late is a failing in two mobile Remote Support Tool (mRST) plug-in (embedded by a large number of manufacturers). The error has affected up to Android 5.1 versions, and shockingly provides attackers with an access to complete remote control over a mobile device. And unfortunately, these remote support tools cannot be eliminated or taken off by the end user. This is the biggest trouble with the Android operating system and it is creating a strong vibe against Android in the industry. This loophole is revealed by Check Point i.e. a security company at Las Vegas. It also puts a question mark on the Android device manufacturers like Samsung, LG, HTC and ZTE etc. After this, the industry is really in cumbersome about their stand for Android. Even it makes the Android developer think twice before putting their best effort for a quality app. The products affected include TeamViewer, Rsupport and CommuniTake Remote. The flaw is yet to be fixed.
Stagefright
Recently, Zimperium a security company published that, there is a terrific security loophole within Android. It named it as a "unicorn" of vulnerability in the Android operating system. Stagefright is that unicorn. Apparently, this one is the most detrimental security flaw ever to attack Android. Stagefright, which has affected all versions up to 5.1, straightaway targets the media playback component and lets attackers exploit the media playback component by sending a malicious video message to nearly any possible Android powered device. This is usually performed while sending an MMS (Text message) to any device. This is done by a mechanism called as “libStageFright”- from which the term StageFright comes. However, what is more frightening is that Stagefright does not really need any user interaction to get started, and could even make itself invisible by deleting itself which is extremely awful.
Android Installer hijacking
This is another damaging security flaw that Android has been arrested by. The security vulnerability basically works by letting attackers replace one installer with another one - when using third-party application stores. Although it has an effect on older mobile devices, Android Installer hijacking reveals the likelihood of allowing a detrimental application replace a legitimate application without the user realizing it. In fact, the application gets replaced with a benign-looking different app which is extremely vulnerable. Now with this benign-looking app, it gets full access to user data like phone contacts, PIN, Photos etc. Although, there are many apps available in the Play store like Installer hijacking scanner and Installer hijacking defender etc. still, there is always a chance of information hijack in Android.
Android FakeID
Although Android FakeID affected almost every mobile device from the version 2.1 to version 4.3, the security flaw was considerably serious (when it hit the IS back in 2014). The flaw rendered the possibility for malicious attackers to hijack the trusted status of a genuine application. This would be carried out by smartly counterfeiting the genuine application’s digital certificate. It not just hindered the growth for Android OS security, but also made it highly vulnerable to other security errors.
Linux futex ‘TowelRoot’
Amongst other clutch of flaws that has largely affected Android in recent times is Linux futex ‘TowelRoot.’ It can corrupt any device; almost every device under Android Ecosystem in a glimpse. The biggest part of this loophole is that, it works within the kernel level, so it can make rooting attack to any device. The OS error viciously targets the futex subsystem, and is actually an odd kernel level security flaw. The flaw, discovered back in June 2014, ended up affecting most Android powered devices running the version of 4.4. However, Google has now fixed up the issue.
Just a text
The most serious of all, perhaps! This security flaw actually does ample harm by letting hackers invade into someone’s mobile device and take complete control over. And just by knowing the phone number. Although Google has been hammering away at fixing this deadly security issue, the attack simply requires the user to either open an attachment or download a file that is crooked. Once the user opens an attachment or downloads an infected file, the flaw releases a harmful code - which further goes on to control the mobile device. The attack is strangely very detrimental as it tends to create a short video, secretes the malware in it and messages it to the user’s mobile number. Well, Google is working around-the-clock to fix this one up, and it is so badly needed to be.
There is no doubt that security and performance are two most important factors that any mobile device manufacturer aims at accomplishing. Considering the fact that they both are intertwined, it becomes even more necessary to ensure that the operating systems steer clear of any possible security vulnerabilities.
While Google is busy these days with regularly scheduling security upgrades, Android users can only look forward to anticipating enhanced security. In a recent statement, however, Google stated: “As soon as we are made aware of the security vulnerability, we immediately take necessary steps to protect our users.”
"Android OS dominance is going to end! Is it really true? Let's keep this secret as a secret for some more time. In between let's check what prompted anyone to think on the same. I believe probably the writer is a diehard fan of Apple and extremely optimistic about the failure of Google's Android instead of success of iOS! While this sounds like Doomsday for Android developers, let's try to understand how the topic came into existence or which situation prompted anyone to establish this idea? And also let’s find out whether it is really true?"
Little fluctuation in Android market share does not make any sense considering its huge volume: I believe this news is generated after the publication of IDC report a few days back. As per IDC, the percentage of Android devices being shipped to the industry in last quarter i.e. Q2 of 2015 is less than that of Q2 of 2014. On the other hand, it also emphasizes on the volume of iOS devices being shipped in that period. It clearly states that, in Q2 2015, the number of iOS devices i.e. of course the in house iPhone and iPad shipped is more than that of the last year i.e. Q2 of 2014. This is not the end; it also clearly says that, the popularity of iOS is getting higher with time. Agreed! We are not at all denying the fact sheet provided by IDC. After all, they have put lots of effort to gather such an important piece of information from the industry. In fact, according to them, the number of devices of Android has fall from 84.8% last year to current 82.8%; on the contrary, iOS devices gained from 11.6% to 13.9%! This piece of information is really creating all confusion. Though, there is a fall of devices sold for Android by 2% and a rise of 2.3% for iOS devices; does that really mean Android's dominance is ending?
I would like to clarify one thing that, Dominance and Clear winner are two different terms and should be used in a responsible manner. Though there is a small decrease in the shipments of Android devices i.e. by 2%; but we must consider the global presence of the Operating System. It's at 82.8% against iOS's 13.9%. That means almost 6 times higher than iOS! So, how can one conclude that Android Dominance is ENDING? This is absolutely misleading information. Even if we consider, that the same trend will continue this quarter and then for next 10 quarters; still, the dominance of Android will be there.
Android is giving more effort for its intellectual property, so no worries for Android lovers: Google is renowned in the industry for accepting the challenge as well as executing it beautifully. World's top brains are working for Google to make all its flagship products remain in the industry for long may it be YouTube, Gmail, Android or jQuery; all are grand successes in the industry and this time Google is not going to do anything different with its beloved Android Operating System. In fact, Google is going to put all its efforts to make its Android OS larger than life this time. It will be more beautiful, more effective and more efficient than ever. We will see it soon with the upcoming Android M.
With Android M, everything will be very much clear: Recently, Google released the developer's preview of its most anticipated Operating System i.e. Android Marshmallow. From the preview, it is clear that, Google is going to make a giant leap this time. Last year, Apple introduced Apple Pay which was an original concept of Google since its Gingerbread 2.3. But this time, Google is also reintroducing its concept in a much effective manner than Apple Pay. Moreover, Google's Power Doze will help in improving battery life of Android devices which is the biggest concern for every Smartphone user. Along with that, features like Rotating screen, finger print scanner, Efficient API permissions etc are highly on demand gossip topics in the web blogs. What is more? Efficient use of OS cores and multitasking is going to work as a vitamin for Android OS. Along with that, custom chrome tab, app linking and USB Type C compatibility will definitely boost Android M to reach new heights sooner. In fact, it is clearly stated by the industry experts that, Android M is going to be the most successful version for Google ever. This should be great news especially for those who are into Android App development.
Android will still dominate the industry as before: If we consider the number of Android devices in the industry; it is far ahead of the number of iOS devices. Moreover, Google's Android One project is pumping the number to even greater heights and is expected to see further growth in near future. Google is going to set another benchmark for Android One devices now, which will definitely create a huge buzz among the Android users this time. Furthermore, Android developers are most welcome to venture their smart app in Play Store without much hassle. This significantly encourages Android OS to be larger with more than 1.5 million of Android apps presence on the Play Store and the number is growing at a much faster pace than its counterpart i.e. Apple's iOS. So, there is no prediction, no assumption or no expectation about the failure of Android in near future.
No way, Google is not dead YET! These things I must mention and iterate that Google is there to keep Android safe in the industry but also grow in popularity. Till date, there is no example of Google's flagship product getting flopped in the industry and the users have always loved it. So, we can say it loud and clear that, no force is there to stop the accelerated motion of Google's Android Operating System in near future! So, forget about the failure of Android and think forward for a brighter future with Android Marshmallow!
Does that make you want to develop an Android app for your business? Are you looking for expert Mobile app development professionals who are experts in developing Android apps? Look no further that Mindfire Solutions that has been delighting its customers in the mobile app space. Just send in your requirements to sales at Mindfire Solutions dot com and we will respond to your query in 72 hours.
"Android- the term is self-defined, no introduction is needed! The most successful Operating System on earth of twenty first century was conceived by Android Inc. but, then born to earth on 2007 by Google. There are almost 13 versions or major releases of this Operating System over last 8 years! With every newer version, it became more powerful, more efficient and more user centric and hence gained such a huge popularity in the industry. As it grows, Android developer have been experimenting their fate with the Operating System. Fortunately, Android made them happy with its beautiful features and amazing performance. Developers get tightly coupled with Android by making their Android apps fit for the changing ecosystem of Google's Android OS! Let's see how both Android OS and Android developer evolved out as a winner over the years!"
Born of a titan under a small roof, but with a golden fortune:
It's the Andy Rubin, who conceived Android with co-operation from Rich Miner and Palo Alto in October 2003. There was a time when they were running out of money and struggling severely to keep Android alive! That time, in 2005 Google acquired Android Inc. and started experimenting with the so called Operating System. It had nothing for the Android developers then. It was in need of intensive care from Google's expert team to make it an industry standard.
Google took away the fortunate and refined it to make it fit for the industry:
Initially, Android was focused to become an Operating System for Camera!! But, with the golden touch from Google, it turned out as a mobile device Operating System to challenge the then market leaders like Blackberry, Symbian and Windows. After lots of hip and hops, Google finally released Android V1 on September 23rd 2008. Now it's somehow ready for the developers to test their faith. Developers are given the chance to access its source code and modify them as per their requirements in building their first Android app; because, Android was open source from the very beginning. So for any Android development project an Android developer can access the source code and use it for his app development.
The V1 has many good features for Android developers:
Google was very much clear what it is going to offer to the industry in the future and it is well understood from its first version itself. Android V1 had many developer's features like enabling Android developers to make their app up-to-date from the Android market itself. It also enabled developers in building web apps that can be opened in many windows i.e. multiple browsing window support which is a great thing in Smartphone considering that time and market penetration. Android developers can build web apps for android platform that can be pin to zoom in and out which is really a supernatural stuff of that period. The best part is that, android developers can take the help of the camera app to make their app more interactive; though not like current version. Android V1 also supports multiple web mail servers with IMAP4, SMTP and POP3 etc. This is not the end of the list! Developers are allowed to take the benefit of Google Calendar, Google contacts, Google Maps, etc. to integrate with their Android app. Google talk, Google Sync, Instant messaging and media player are also there to boost the quality of any Android app if gets executed properly.
Android V1.1 released on February 9, 2009:
Though, it has not that much great updates still have some scope for developers to make their app interactive. Now, Google Map enabled developers to take the benefits of reviews for a place when get searched by the Map API. It also enabled Developers to show or hide Dialpad as per the requirement of the user or the app. The most important part is that, it enabled Android developers to attach files to their messages.
Android V1.5 to 2.3 i.e. From C to G versions:
From April 2009 to December 2013, there is tremendous change in the OS and also for the Android developers. In Android Cupcake (C), the developer gets some new features to integrate in his app like virtual keyboard support for the input field of any app, widget support for expanding features of your app, Auto Pairing with Bluetooth was a massive hit then; enabling users and developers in integrating pictures for their mobile contacts app. Other features include animated screen option; auto rotation option, video upload option to YouTube etc. were there. In D i.e. Donut version, Voice search and text search get available for developers to integrate with their app, Option to include developer's content in search result, Multilingual speech support, better features for Camera and gallery apps, etc. Most importantly, it encouraged network developers by providing support for CDMA and EVDO and VPNs, etc. Then, with Android Eclair, developers get features like advanced multi account to get synced with the system, Push mail support, Bluetooth 2.1 support, Double tap support for enhanced user experience through the developer's app. In Android Froyo and Gingerbread, there are many awesome features included for both the developer and the user. Allowing developers to use the Android Cloud to device Messaging services, USB tethering and WiFi hotspot functionalities and controlling mobile data access, etc. Now, developers can make their app with numeric and alphanumeric input option, they can also display both GIF files in their android web app along with support for videos with flash! Then, with Android G which was the most successful version of the Android open its way for developers by giving option to develop high resolution web apps and native apps for the Android users. Download manager, enhanced camera features and graphical enhancements for Android game developers work like a charm. There were many API fixes as well for the developers to make their app truly efficient and faster than before.
Android H to K:
In H version, there was not much scope for android developers, though but Ice-cream has quite something for the developers. Multi core support, OTG Support, Resizable home screen, support for an external keyboard, High Performance WiFi lock and Support for HTTP proxy were boon for the Android developers then. Again, pinch to zoom in calendar, improved visual voice mail, screenshot capture options, data usage controls and support for Webp picture format, etc. made a good choice for Android developers and users as well. With Android Jelly bean, developers get benefits like other language support for their app, USB audio support, providing developers a chance to create third party launchers and widgets, many API fixes, etc. Now with the latest Kitkat, developers get some good features along with enhancements of the existing features like 4k resolution support, more language support, immersive mode support, wireless printing support, Chromium web view, Native Infrared blaster support etc. Now, the upcoming Android M i.e. Marshmallow is coming. Let's see what is there inside for the developers?
Our Android app development team consists of 25+ experts who are highly skilled and possess in-depth understanding of nuances required to build apps for the wide range of Android enabled devices. Should you be in need of an Android app, please mail your requirements to sales at Mindfire Solutions dot com and we will get back to you in 72 hours.
Android powers over a billion of mobile devices in more than 190 countries globally. It is the largest installed base of any other mobile platform and is growing rapidly. Android provides a world-class platform to build apps and also games for the Android users all over, along with an open market in order to distribute them instantly. Android turned out to be the fastest growing mobile operating system. Android’s openness makes it a most popular for the users and for the developers as well. The users of Android download over 1.5 billion applications and games through Google Play store every month. Along with its partners, Android is constantly pushing the boundaries of the hardware and the software in providing new features to the consumers and for the developers.
Android advancement enables developers to develop effective, distinguished apps which use the next mobile technologies. Each day over 1 million new devices of Android are activated around the world. Android is providing all that you need to build world-class app experiences. It provides a single application model which allows you to set up your apps extensively to billions of users over many devices, including phones, tablets and more. Android, in addition, provides tools for building apps that are great and make use of the hardware abilities available on every device, which helps Android app developers. Automatically it adapts your UI to appear it is best on every device, whereas providing so much control you need for your UI on various device types.
About distributing and selling Android apps, Google Play happens to be the premier marketplace for Android. Once you publish an app on Google Play, you get to the huge installed base of Android. Being an open marketplace, Google Play puts you in charge of the way you sell your products. One can publish anytime, as much as you would like, and also to the customers you prefer. One and a half billion downloads each month and growing continuously. Get the apps before millions of consumers in Google's scale.
Google created Android as an open-source project, Android happens to be the most popular mobile operating system around the world. Nearly every smartphone manufacturer has one or more Android phone, with each of them offering the platform of its own spin. You will be interested in Android if you like developing your mobile experience and wish to enjoy the latest technologies. The reason being Android is easy to customize, the devices generally have fun, latest features and technologies, you can get your phone at any cost.
In order to make the look and feel of your phone simply the way you desire and you've got an average level of technical knowledge to really make it happen. Every aspect of Android user interface, with just how the icons appear to what all fonts you notice, can be modified or even can be turned out. And in case you are looking for further control, you could root your phone, providing you with access into an underlying operating system and allowing you to install whatever you want. Android devices usually have unique accessories that allow you to use your phone for fun and various different ways, according to the manufacturer. Android is a default OS for many of the mobile phones which manufacturers offer. Amongst the different brand names and the various devices they offer at different prices, there are a lot of ranges for one to choose from.
Android is a good all-rounder that provides certainly the very best choice. In case you are a user of Google services currently, then Android certainly makes the much sense for you. Among its strengths is even among it is the biggest weak point. It is hard to debate Android being a single experience since there is a huge gap from a premium flagship as well as a budget release, even though Google is taking measures to close the gap.
More than 1 billion Android OS devices are in use, with many of those are smartphones and android tablets. Android operating system has a strong lead in several nations all over the world, taking over 80% from the market share in certain regions. The strategy of developing just the source code from the Google after which leaving it on the manufacturers to make both the high-end and the budget models seem like it is a success in many countries. Google, in addition, has launched many initiatives for example Android One to deliver reliable and cheap Android devices for the developing nations.
Mindfire Solutions was one of the first companies in India to launch Android application development when the official Android SDK was released. Our Android App Development Team has experience in developing apps in all Android versions, starting from Froyo to Lollipop. If you have any custom app development needs or you need to upgrade existing app to the recent Android version, you can hire senior Android app developers and as a limited period offer, you can avail our Risk-Free Trial Offer. Similarly, you can avail the services of our Android app testing team to test existing or new Android Apps.
Smart phone market is growing like a fire in the industry. The experts and trade analysts have already estimated that it will be even bigger in shape this year as well. Almost every day, there is something happening in the industry like introduction of a new handset or release of a new version or update of a version or even all together!! In this situation, there are three major smart operating system dominating the industry Android, iOS and Windows 8.1. Among them, Google’s Android is at the top of the list with highest market share of around 60-70% and it still increases with every passing day. With such a huge market, it creates a favourable environment for the hackers to show their so called talent in the industry through various virus malware applications. Let’s see what are the conditions that make android platform vulnerable than ever before.
Popularity of Android is tremendous: Usually a hunted mind hunts for something that is very popular; because he can gain his unpopularity on the backbone of popularity of the same. If there are billions of android users and a person spreads a virus into the eco system, then he will reach to a billion users with one chance!! So, it prompts him to attack a bigger eco system just like android so that he can reach at maximum number of users in less effort.
There are many third party market places for android apps other than Google Play Store: This is yet another possible reason for the vulnerability of android platform!! There are many portals other than Google’s authentic Play store to provide different apps for android platform. Well, when it is Google, there are many security measures are adopted before an app get launched into the android eco system; but, this is not the case in other unauthentic platforms. These portals work like an easy entrance for those hackers; because, there are no security checks for the apps required and hence they can put their viral app for the innocent android users. Once the android user comes under the trap of these viral apps, it will spread like fire in the industry.
Still large scales of devices run on older android versions: Everyone knows and believes that the latest version comes with many bug fixes and improvements for the end user!! But, there is a huge gap between what we believe and what we do!! Isn’t? It may be a circumstance driven or whatever; but, at the end of the day, we have to pay huge for the same. In Android eco system, there are huge shares of older android versions in the smart devices. Moreover, I would like to inform you that the latest android version devices are less in number to that of older versions. It may be due to lack of infrastructure; I mean the hardware specification of a device that prevents you from upgrading your OS. But, it’s not in every case; many times we find this because of marketing policies of the industry. Whatever the reason may be, this tempts the hackers to have a bad eye on your device and making you the victim for their next adventure!!
Mindfire Solutions was one of the first companies in India to launch Android application development when the official Android SDK was released. Our Android App Development Team has experience in developing apps in all Android versions, starting from Froyo to Lollipop. If you have any custom app development needs or you need to upgrade existing app to the recent Android version, you can hire senior Android App developers and as a limited period offer, you can avail our Risk-Free Trial Offer. Similarly, you can avail the services of our Android App Testing team to test existing or new Android Apps.
Like big brands, small and local businesses can reap several benefits by launching custom mobile apps. But each business has to invest time, effort and money to create its own dedicated mobile app. Each business, however, has option to increase productivity by downloading the right Android apps. Along with facilitating business operations and communication, the Android business apps will further help businesses in staying connected with their customers.
7 Essential Business Apps for Android Devices in 2015
1) Microsoft Office for Android Tablet: As the name indicates, the app is the full-featured version of Microsoft Office from Android tablets. The Android app enables users to access Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook Preview on their tablets. Further, the users have option to use Microsoft's OneDrive cloud-storage platform to store and access their files anytime and anywhere. The app makes it easier for easier to access their normal business documents without using any additional tools.
2) Google Drive: Google Drive is a solid and free cloud-storage option for Android devices. The app makes it easier for users to store a variety of files online and access them anywhere. The application enables users to access documents, photos, videos and PDFs on the go. Further, they have option to share the files and folders with other users, while allowing them to edit and comment.
3) Google Docs, Sheets and Slides: Google boosts the user’s productivity by providing its own apps like Docs, Sheets and Slides. Docs is the word processor, Sheets is the spreadsheet editor, and Slides is the presentation maker. In comparison to other office apps, these applications have better features, along with cleaner and more attractive interface. As the Google files are compatible with Microsoft Office files, it becomes easier for user to transfer their business information to the Google Drive from the desktop computer and mobile devices. The user can further edit the files offline when there is no internet connection.
4) Skype: As a hugely popular instant messaging and video calling application, Skype does not need any introduction. The Android version of Skype makes it easier for users to meet and stay connected with their employees and customers by making video calls. The front-facing camera of Android devices further makes it easier for users to make video calls without any hassle. At the same time, the business owners can also use the Skype app to make low cost calls to landlines and mobile devices.
5) Microsoft’s Remote Desktop App: The small business owners need to access the work resources stored on their desktop computers frequently. Microsoft has launched the app to make it easier for users to access to their PC remotely through Android devices. The app further enables them to access the work resources stored on the PC through a secure and reliable connection. So it becomes easier for business owners to access and edit the full desktop version of work resources anytime and anywhere.
6) Square Register: The business app’s point-of-sales features enable users to start, run and grow their businesses on the go. Along with keeping track of sales and inventory, the Android application can also be used to view business analytics, customize products, record cash or gift card receipts, and send receipts through email or text message. The users residing in USA can further use the app to accept credit card payment through a specially designed credit card reader dongle.
7) Expense Manager: As the name signifies, the Android business app enables business owners to keep track of their budgets and expenses. The users also have option to track their income and expenses on a weekly, monthly or yearly basis. They can further use the app to schedule payments and recurring payments, receive payment alerts, and take picture of receipts. The Expense Manager app also supports multiple accounts and multiple currencies.
On the whole, each user has option to choose from loads of Android apps. The user can further consider using the free Android business apps to become more productive without incurring additional expenses. The Android App developers must select the right open source Android development tools to create high-performing and user-friendly apps without increasing project overheads.
We provide Android App development services. To hire Android developer from us, please reach out to us at Mindfire Solutions.
Google adopted a completely different approach to roll out Android Lollipop 5.0. Instead of organizing a grand event to launch the version 5.0 of the mobile operating system, Google promoted its features through the Android website and a number of blogs. But many analysts recently predicted that the market share of Android Lollipop will rise in Q2 2015 with the mobile devices from major manufacturers hitting the market during the period. That is why; it is important for users to understand some of the most important features of Android 5.0 to optimize their experience.
Some of the Most Important Features of Android Lollipop 5.0
Material Design: Google has build Lollipop using a completely revamped design language, i.e. Material Design. Google had further extended Material Design to its mobile operating system, services and applications. The Material Design provides a cleaner and lighter look to the updated version of Google mobile operating system, while making it look fresh and distinct. The designed interface is the first thing that each user will notice after updating to Android Lollipop.
Volta: Android 5.0 further improves a device’s battery life drastically by taking advantage of the new initiative by Google called Volta. As Volta is hardwired into Lollipop, it runs deep inside the mobile operating system. At the same time, it uses Job Scheduler and similar APIs to control how the device performs specific tasks, and how it behaves while remaining inactive. The feature makes Volta effective in enhancing the battery life of various mobile devices.
Voice Command System: Android Lollipop enables users to give voice commands if their devices support the feature. The users also have option to say "Ok Google" when the device is inactive, and make the device wake. Once the device is active, they can use voice commands to send text messages or initiating web searches. However, they have to active the Voice Input option from the device’s system settings.
Face Unlock: Lollipop further makes it easier for users to secure their devices and sensitive data through the Face Lock feature. The user can visit Security > Smart Lock > Trusted Face, and make the system recognize his face. After saving the setting, he can access the device and files without further security checks. Each time the screen is activated the system will identify the user’s face, and allow him to access the device. The entire authentication can be further completed by the system in just a few seconds.
Lock Screen Notifications: Lollipop completely alters the look and feel of Android lock screen. But it enables user to see his personal notifications directly on the lock screen. Each time the user switches his device on; he can immediately see the notifications waiting. He also has option to dismiss the notification simply by swiping it horizontally in any direction. Also, he can open the notification by tapping on it twice.
Priority Mode: The feature is identical to iOS’s "Do Not Disturb" feature. But Google has implemented the feature in a smarter way. A user can avail the feature to choose the specific apps that can disturb him when the system is in Priority Mode. He also has option to set the duration for the notification to be included in normal notification. Thus, it becomes easier for users to keep track of important notifications.
Pin Apps Mode: Often a user has to allow others to use his mobile device. While allowing others to use his mobile device, the user has to explore ways to keep his pictures, messages and similar personal information secure. Android Lollipop enables users to solve the problem by enabling the Pin Apps mode. The mode keeps the private and sensitive information stored on a device inaccessible by adding an extra layer of security. Each time others try to access the locked apps, the system will ask them to enter the passkey.
On the whole, Android Lollipop 5.0 comes with loads of new features and enhancements, along with a completely different look and feel. The users can simply buy the latest Android handsets available in the market to avail the updated version of Android. Each user must spend some time to understand the new features of the popular mobile operating system to get a real sense of it. To get maximum benefits of Android development, you may consider hiring services of an Android App development company.
If you want to know more about our Android App development expertise or you want to hire Android developers, please contact us at sales[@]mindfiresolutions[.]com. We will be glad to help you.
