Google has officially unveiled the Android M OS during its I/O conference.
Although the company has not yet explained what the M stands for, Google boasted that the Android M's features are better than those of its predecessor, the Android Lollipop.
When Google's Lollipop OS first came out in 2014, it redesigned the user interface through its Material Design feature. However, it also came with various bugs and glitches such as Wi-Fi connectivity issues, battery rain and memory leaks, Metro Weekly reported.
Although some of these issues were fixed though update roll outs, most of them lingered and remained.
Now, for the Android M, Google promised that not only will the new OS be problem-free, but it will also come with new features that will enhance user experience.
For instance, through the new OS, Google will expand the support for fingerprint scanners. Instead of just unlocking devices, Android M will add an authentication function to these scanners so users can use them with Android Pay and make Play Store purchases.
Another notable feature of the Android M is the improved app permissions system. Previously, apps request access permissions to users during the installation process. But through the revamped setting, permissions will now only appear the first time users open a feature of an app.
In addition, users will get the option to modify the permissions granted to apps through the device's Settings menu. Through this new feature, Google will be able to provide users with full control over how they interact with their apps, according to Android Pit.
Aside from these, Google is also aiming to deliver better battery consumption through Android M's Doze function. This mode utilizes motion sensors that can detect whether or not the device is being used.
Once it recognizes that the user is not interacting with the device, such as when it's inside a person's jean pocket or just resting on top of a table, Doze will automatically reduce and shut down various background processes to lessen battery consumption.
