LG Nexus 4, ASUS Nexus 7: 15 Coolest Features of Android 4.4 KitKat Owners Should Be Expecting
Android 4.4 KitKat is currently exclusive with Nexus 5 but coming real soon to Nexus 4 and Nexus 7 devices. Android 4.4 will bring 15 coolest features which owners should expect on their LG Nexus 4 and ASUS Nexus 7.
Unlimited Home Screen
Normally, Android OS supports 5 to 10 home screen panes depending on which device brand and OS version. But in Android 4.4, there is no limit how many home screen you would like to use for shortcuts, widgets and everything else.
Integrated Pedometer
Nexus 5 supports a sensor which can be used as a pedometer or a step tracker. Android 4.4 enables the hardware to function using an application called 'Move' to monitor steps that is very useful for basic exercise. It is unknown yet if both Nexus 4 and Nexus 7 2013 can support such app.
Ok Google
A new feature has been included to the Google Now feature which allows the owner to control several functions by voice. Ok Google voice control is compatible with music playback, messaging, email service and more.
Immersive Mode
Android 4.4 KitKat has a new mode for reading and movie marathon called 'Immersive Mode.' Reading e-books and movie playback will hide everything else around the screen except what you are actually viewing and once you wanted check time or notifications, simply swipe to unhide surrounding parts of the screen.
Caller ID by Google
Google Now functionality is now integrated with the Caller ID that displays more than just the default information. Certain details found from Google Search and Maps may be displayed to the contact calling you.
Hangouts
Hangouts become a secondary and optional SMS/MMS client for any device running Android 4.4 KitKat. But Hangouts app can be downloaded from certain Web sites for manual installation which already feature the SMS function without an official upgrade it. Since Android 4.4 isn't out yet, it is not certain if Google will remove the 'messaging' app on both Nexus 4 and Nexus 7 with their update.
App Redesigned
Google Drive and Keep become native applications on Android 4.4 KitKat while downloads get more options and the default email client features a similar UI with Gmail app.
QuickOffice
QuickOffice is an application made by Google which can edit, create and open Microsoft Office documents, spreadsheets and presentation. In Android 4.4 KitKat, QuickOffice becomes a native app and integration with Google Drive.
Google Wallet
NFC network carrier restrictions do no longer exist in Android 4.4 KitKat with Google Waller which allows the user to tap and pay with Nexus 5 smartphone to any carrier. Using the Tap and Pay feature installed on your phone, you can now pay services wirelessly.
Android Device Manager
One of the new features of Android 4.4 is the Android Device Manager which will track down your lost Android device with erase and locking power wirelessly. In addition, you can use their Web-based version on your browser to find your lost or stolen device provided there it remains connected to a network.
Bluetooth MAP Support
If you own a car, Bluetooth MAP support becomes native on Android 4.4 KitKat. Nexus 5 can interactively connect with your luxurious car via Bluetooth.
More Emojis
More and more emojis are supported by Android 4.4 KitKat and it includes several Japanese characters that express more feelings on your messages.
Lock Screen Becomes Better
Unlike with previous Android version, the lock screen in Android 4.4 comes with full album art support from music or movie. Moreover, you can now seek the current song or movie just right on the lock screen. Normally, this feature is only available in custom ROMs running Android Jelly Bean.
Better User Interface
Smoothness and accuracy are all added to Android 4.4 KitKat that makes UI fluid while touch responds properly where your fingers are pointing.
Cloud Printing
Google made Android 4.4 KitKat fully integrated with the Internet and wireless connectivity which now allow users to use Cloud Printing function in addition to other cloud-based system. Cloud Print on Android 4.4 is compatible with certain HP printers and printers using Google Play Store applications.
Both Nexus 4 and Nexus 7 (1st/2nd generation) are expected to get their official Android 4.4 KitKat before 2013 ends when Google made the new OS version public. In case there some features are not usable to you, custom ROM developers will find a way to make it work for your device.