Android 4.4 KitKat Release Date Rumour: Added Features, Jelly Bean MK4, Instagram Inspiration and New Apps
Google has been working on major update to its Android interface. The company made a big move when it changed the name Key Lime Pie to KitKat. The release of the Android KitKat 4.4 is much anticipated as it will be the standard operating system for many tablets and smartphones across the globe.
Likewise, there are also reports saying that the new OS may come with two flagship devices: Nexus 5 and Nexus 10. It will be one "Googley" Christmas if these all push through.
As the market anticipates for the new Android OS a roundup of the reported and leaked features including additional information should provide an insight on whether it is the worth the wait.
Added Features
The numerous leaks around provide a number of insights as to what people can expect from the new Android OS. Google reportedly included additional subsections for Printing and Payments. The Payments section will incorporate NFC payments into the operating system. This means users can access their carrier pages or accounts directly through Android instead of using third party apps.
Native smartphone printing through Android previously was only possible through third party apps. In fact, that can only happen if the printer manufacturer does create an app for it. From the looks of it, it seems Android will accommodate native printing on its platform. Google remains tightlipped about the native printing feature but many sources believe that it will come in this latest update of the OS.
Another reported feature is the Wireless display. This added setting will include the Miracast tech. According to reports, Miracast will compete with Apple's AirPlay. Users can now stream wireless video outputs to their televisions through an option called 'Manage Mobile plan.' They can find this under the Wireless & networks section.
The second generation Nexus 7 already featured this app. Though, it might still be worth mentioning since all devices will soon have access to it once Android 4.4 KitKat rolls out. Sources revealed that the new Android build will prevent background apps from accessing additional data especially when connected to the device's own hotspot. This will be very convenient for people using tablets or smartphones who do not want to stretch their bills from unwarranted or unnecessary usage.
Jelly Bean MK4
Those thinking the Android KitKat 4.4 will be a revolutionized platform that is far from Jelly Bean should not let their hopes up too much. Some sources hint that Jelly Bean and KitKat may not be far difference from each other. This means people should expect a similar feel and look on their home screens including the dock and notification bar.
According to a report by Gadget Helpline, KitKat will have smoother animations. Likewise, the blue icons in the notification bar will now be bright white once KitKat rolls out. As it was previously reported, Google has tried new colors to their system apps. This includes the Dialler. The black paint is not as prominent as before and the hint of bright white makes everything appear brighter.
Instagram Inspired
Reports hint that Android 4.4 KitKat may include new photo editing options. Some of the features that will be added are Center Focus and Tilt-Shift. There are also new Posterize and Negative effects. Another great addition is that users can now export their edited images in the size they want. This comes with adjustable slider.
New Apps
Some of the reported additional apps include Drive (for file storage), Quick Office (for text documents), and Keep (for note taking) including apps for presentations and spreadsheets. People will be able to connect their Drive to sync their cloud-stored files. Quick Office, on other hand, lets people save their images as PDF files ready for printing.
KitKat may appear to have subtle improvements but the added features and apps should leave users satisfied. People are still waiting for the flagship device that will carry the new OS. Google will need to make an official announcement on both.