An Android Smartphone Displays Google Website
An Android smartphone displays the Google website in this picture illustration in Seoul September 7, 2011. Reuters/Truth Leem

Google's Android 5.0 Lollipop continues to make waves as devices have yet to receive the official firmware. With the Nexus roll out expected to push this November 12, other Android devices may have to wait a little longer. Fortunately, there are APK downloads available allowing users to experience parts of the Android 5.0 Lollipop update.

The Material Design ushers in a whole new range of transformations with many analysts citing it as a good move on Google's part. The company has been working on application updates to support the new Lollipop interface. According to Android Police, the Gmail 5.0 APK has been released offering Material Design overhauls and the exchange accounts feature.

Android Headlines notes a number of changes from the download. For instance, people no longer have to use the dropdown menu from the hamburger menu. Users can expect their Google apps Gmail account displayed right to their personal account via a tiny bubble. The profile pictures of the accounts are displayed as well. People can tap on the bubbles to switch accounts instead of accessing the dropdown menu. All of these functions feature the promised fluid and impressive animations Android 5.0 Lollipop reportedly comes with.

Another Android Police report points to the release of the Google Calendar 5.0 download. The application is accessible to Android devices operating with 4.0.3 and up. The report gives a glimpse of the application emphasizing the "super smart" schedule layout. This includes 5-day phone views, supporting day, week and month views for tablets.

For smartphones, the week view is in landscape mode. The new app also integrates reminders with Gmail allowing users to work with them in any appointment. Other features include smart imagery and map snippet for events with location sets. Details of the download according to Android Police are as follows:

File name: com.google.android.calendar-5.0-1554015-2014102731-minAPI15.apk

Version: 5.0-1554015 (Android 4.0.3+)

MD5: 065ceb8875b19f1f1b5e0e36e5bb3dbb

The new APK downloads can only provide snippets of the actual software. It cannot substitute the overall interface. Google has always been on the lookout for signing apps, testing for malware and ensuring users remain secure. Those downloading the APKs must secure their sources. Otherwise, it is best to wait for the official roll out.