0 The fragmentation of Android and Google's solution

By Unknown | At 9:00 PM | Label : Android | 0 Comments

Android is an open platform, the operating system used by hundreds of millions of smartphones worldwide. With its OEMs, open the Android as a pair of wings to help them fly away, flying high on the smartphone market, but with the father of it, Google, Android is open seemingly makes this U.S. technology group felt worried, and would really matter if they have not solved a very difficult problem: the fragmentation of Android. And this is also the key topics to be brought up for discussion in many talks between Google engineers and developers all over the world at the conference Google I / O 2013, with the common goal of limiting multi-fragmentation as well as the solution of this problem.

What is Fragmentation? The cause of fragmentation in Android

First of all we need to have a general concept of the term "fragmentation of Android". First, it should be understood that "Fragmentation = Classification into pieces", so, in the Android fragmentation is caused by two main factors:

The constant updates are released in a short time, while the old equipment could not upgrade to Android soon before;

Too many companies involved in manufacturing OEMs phone, Android tablet -> dozens of devices with sufficient size, screen resolution running Android -> fragmentation from within Android.

Effects of fragmentation so what? Apparently Android fragmentation will cause a lot of trouble, especially for application developers and OEMs to major carriers. Let's try an example for clarity:

Difficulties app: The app developer wants to sell, they have to make good the app is compatible with Android models being sold, or popular Android devices. So, when Samsung launches Galaxy S4 screen 5 ", Full HD resolution, they (developer) to modify your app to fit the screen resolution to 1920 x 1080 pixels unbroken while they maintain the app development for those with HD resolution, or the resolution of computer screen is lower.

Difficulties updates: There is a real easy to see that Google is constantly launching Android updates in a very short time. Going back to when Android has two versions: one for smartphones (Android 2.3 Gingerbread from younger), and one for tablets (Android 3.0 Honeycomb), Android 2.3 when it was started in vogue and many machines still is in the process of upgrading, then Google decided to merge Android and launched version 4.0 and later no longer is 4.1, 4.2. The Android update to the new version so quickly has caused many problems for small firms OEMs, they will be embarking on editing interface, start the process of updating Android 4.0, 4.1 for medium and high-end models level (a new machine only to Android 2.3 a few days), and then the result is: long users wait to share the latest Android or accept money to buy the new smartphone comes pre-installed Android 4.1 or 4.2.

Of course, the members of the development team of Google Android was aware of the problem, but it is limited to a "talking is easy but difficult to practice." During his talk with the developers, representatives of Google Android division, said Dave Burke, said obviously very difficult to balance support for older hardware devices and continuous threads innovative solutions for Android to meet user needs. Burke is entirely reasonable to say this, as we know, the new Android version always includes a variety of new features, more creative, more unique, and increasingly more complete, but when Google as trying to make Android becomes more perfect with the constant updates, then they inadvertently "upset" of smartphone users older generation - which is the hardware configuration does not respond well, or not wait a few months to get the new Android upgrade.

In fact, Google made a bid to limit the worsening fragmentation of Android, which was launched Android version 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich (Android version is compatible with most of the tablet and smartphone). The purpose of the creation of ICS that helps developers do not have to create two versions of the same app (one for tablets and one for phones), from which the app was launched and upgraded more quickly. Unfortunately, since the advent ICS, more developers to give users Android OS 2.3 or less, and only released the app required to run ICS or more machines. Perhaps before Google released ICS had anticipated this, but they think that the sacrifice of people using Android 2.3, 2.2 to completely change the Android platform will be a wise strategic move, particularly considering the future of Android.

Solution named "Nexus"

Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich is Google's first attempt to slow the fragmentation of Android, so the company's second attempt is: is the Nexus series. Before talking about the Nexus devices, Burke did not forget to mention a very sensitive issue, he said that the issue "Android fragmentation" basically caused by the machines running the Android version is not pure. Burke went on to suggest that the main interface, the third-party app, its effect from the OEMs, the network is what makes the series even though the high-end smartphone, but still can not update the Android version last time. So whenever Google launches new Android version, OEMs and network operators to begin to develop the theme, install app for their devices - resulting in time and cost more money - along with capture the user to wait for fatigue.

So the best solution to combat fragmentation, to be able to experience the Android OS a "pure" one, which is the use of the Google Nexus series. Take a look at the Galaxy Nexus or Nexus 4, we always get the latest Android version immediately without having to wait for months, because they both use the original Android interface, without any intervention by the firm OEMs or carriers. Because of the great benefits of the original Android, so recently we've seen Samsung and Google have partnered together to launch the Android powered Galaxy S4 Net: user interface such as the Nexus series - this can be considered is a smart move by both Google and Samsung. Samsung will give customers more choice, while Google to go a long way in the campaign to limit the fragmentation of Android.

We can see, Android is now divided into two arrays: one that harkened back to the original Android Nexus, Android has passed both the editing, customization by OEMs or carriers. In particular, if the Android in the second array will be for those who prefer sophisticated, like the spectacular effects, like the complexity and interface features such as Samsung's TouchWiz or HTC's HTC Sense, the Android in the third Most seem to be a long-term plan of Google more. It is a unified plan Android, minimize fragmentation, and bring the Android experience "purest" to the consumer.

Epilogue

Android OS smartphone with many appearing in all segments, from low level to high level, but this will make the problem of Android fragmentation increasingly more serious. Burke said the most viable solution Google is now reducing the amount of updates and simplifies the hardware requirements, but whether it is effective? Is pressure from competitors such as iOS, Windows Phone, or BlackBerry will cause Google to accept the development of Android updates around the low-level flow? The answer is probably never, have to accept the fact that the focus on high-end models will help Google increase competition in the market, but instead they will have to give smartphone users the Android low level. Google can lower the amount of updated packages, hoping to bring the latest Android smartphone to the old, but they can not take the good features which only run on 4 cores on a smartphone handset single core or dual core.

Nexus is a great solution to thwart Google fragmented, but that is not enough. Google needs to do much more with Android, they should release the minor update, focusing on the important new features, instead of making such a leap to upgrade Android 2.3 to Android 4.0. Consequently, after a long time launch Android 4.0, a very large number of Android devices on the market remains stagnant Android 2.3 Gingerbread or Android 2.2 Froyo. The focus on features instead of the platform interface, OEMs will help the company update their devices quickly and easily.

Hopefully, with a solution called Nexus and optimize Android updates, Google will quickly achieve "unity Android", and then users would not have hesitated thinking: do not know the Android phones that have been updated to Android 4.2.2 in the future, or the purchase of new and abandoned!

Source: Tinhte

0 The new API of Google Play Services makes Android better how?

By Unknown | At 5:25 AM | Label : Android | 0 Comments

In the event Google I / O takes place at No. 5, the least we expect Android 4.3 or 5.0 did not happen. Instead, Google has announced details of the new features soon appear on Google Play Services. These changes can not be made, but we are interested in is very important for the development. So Google Play
Services gives programmers and it's what makes Android better how?

Google Play Services is a set of application programming interfaces (APIs) that programmers use to develop the best software for Android. You might think that the programming API function does not help much for casual users but for programmers, they provide a foundation on which they can write new applications and adds new features for existing applications. These features make the application can do more things, to allow the application programmer to Play Google users faster and also get a better experience.

No Android, no new equipment such as rumors, some people were disappointed, expressed some annoyance, others still patiently. However, these improvements could say Google's core services is greater than one because the Android version: The new update is expected to be released in a few weeks Google will be given to the most current version of Android Froyo (2.2) to Jelly Bean (4.2.2) and on any device from the Galaxy Nexus, Xperia.

Android Google Maps API v2

Of course, Google Maps no longer so new. The only thing that we desire from 10 years ago such as traffic information in real time, navigation, orientation, schedule, view maps in 3D, terrain, satellite, etc. ... all have come true Google Maps now with the compact handset. But with the new API, developers will be able to integrate feature maps directly into their applications. Increased usability and innovative applications to a new level.

Locations API

At the event, Google announced three new APIs for location services including Fused Location Provider, Geofencing and Activity Recognition.

Fused Location Provider using the sensors integrated on the phone or Android tablet to quickly determine your location. New API can retrieve location information faster, more accurately and save battery life than before. Google said that this feature will use less than 1% of battery per hour.

Geofencing is a set idea of ​​"fence" (fence) around a certain area (eg your home, workplace, schools, gyms, churches, etc ...) and allows programmers Members determine the perimeter fence around the area. From there, they can add more features to the application, such as when you walked out "fence", the application will trigger an alert or action that reminds you what to do next .

Activity Recognition allows the device to determine how you are moving (walking, driving or cycling) based on integrated sensors and logic algorithms. Thereby, applications can provide information consistent with this kind of move, especially without the use of GPS.

Google Plus Sign-in

This API allows you to use Google account to log into the application if the programmer settings. In addition, one time login form also supports cross-platform, that is, when you log into an application / website on a device, your login information will be synchronized if your application / site same site on another device. Moreover, if the site is on the Android app, when you log on the website, it will also automatically log on the application you have downloaded and installed on the device.

Google Cloud Messaging

Google Cloud Messaging API was introduced last year and it is used for communication between active applications and terminal server support. Cloud Messaging is currently being integrated into Google Play Services and thanks to the strong improvement, Cloud Messaging now supports persistent connections and transmit messages upstream (upstream). Therefore, the device can send responses back to the server that is no longer just a way from the server to the device as before.

Thanks backhaul features, notifications (notifications) you received and missed calls on this device can be synchronized with other devices. You will not have to check a series of similar messages on the phone when switched to using my tablet. Eventually phones and Android tablets have similar activities better coordinated with each other.

Game Services

One of these claims is more interested programmers at Google I / O this is the new API Gaming. Google APIs emphasized by the introduction of an ability to play online racing game, but was unfortunately unsuccessful performances. However, the new API has brought many important features to make gaming experience on the Android platform a step.

First Cloud Save. As its name implies, users can save game progress in the cloud. The games that exploit this API will remember that the game you're playing bad when switching between devices or even when you buy a new phone.

Next, Achievements and Leaderboard System. This is a ranking system gaming performance similar to Microsoft's Xbox Live service. Leaderboard not only show the scores of players around the world, but it also helps you to record interesting stuff with other people from your friends list on Google Plus.

Finally Mutilplayer additional API features for multiplayer games on Android. Programmers now also not too much investment to set up the game's multiplayer system with new API. Not only Android vs Android, Multiplayer API supports multi-platform, so you can play online with all iOS devices.

All the new API will be released for devices running Android 2.2 Froyo or higher in the earliest time. However, Google also recently introduced Android Studio programming tools and will take more time for both the new and old apps are updated to exploit all the great features.

By: Pocketnow

0 Google announced Android Studio programming environment, making new Developer Console

By Unknown | At 12:27 AM | Label : Android | 0 Comments

In the event Google I / O, Cases has officially introduced a new programming tool for Android called Android Studio. One of the new features of the development environment is that it better supports layout applications for many different devices, make sure that the app can write compatible with all screen
smartphone and tablet . The changes in the programming code will be displayed in real time on the accompanying simulation tools. Google also added the ability to drag and drop graphical components to build the application process easier and quicker. Studio Android app also allows playback in many different languages ​​in the same interface for programmers can edit the bug still exists. This is just one of the features of Android Studio and Google will announce in the near future. Currently Android Studio has allowed downloading the preview here.

On this occasion, the management application for Programmers (Developer Console) on Google Play has been improved. Now developers will find a list of area optimized applications (Optimization Tips), such as those suggested in the "design your app for the tablet." Translation Service, the service lets developers submit their applications to their translation company to convert it into a variety of different languages ​​(surcharge), and this is one way for developers to access to many new countries.

In addition, programmers can better track the ads integrated into the app thanks to Referral Tracking, track resources to install apps from anywhere / any device. The new chart is to simplify the analysis of app revenue (Revenue Graph). Finally, the Developer Console support app developers as a beta deployment or phased release (Beta Testing & Staged rollouts).

According to The Verge, The Next Web, Google

0 Google introduced Android interface original Galaxy S4, available unlocked bootloader, 649 USD for 16GB

By Unknown | At 12:21 AM | Label : Android , Galaxy | 0 Comments

No new Nexus Galaxy S4 except the hardware is only mentioned in the presentation of Android today at I / O 2013. Samsung Galaxy S4 smartphone appeared on stage with the original Android interface, similar to the Nexus line, not run custom TouchWiz interface like Samsung sell. As such, this is not the first device in
the Nexus family sold the original Android interface. Not only with pure Android interface, Galaxy S4 sold on Play Store also available unlocked bootloader, LTE, 16GB of internal memory and Android received an update soon in the future. Galaxy S4 with pure Android interface will be available from June 26 to $ 649 with AT & T and T-Mobile. Preset Android 4.2 (Jelly Bean).

Source: Google

0 Synthesis and rumors of Android 4.3/5.0 features ahead of Google I / O

By Unknown | At 9:41 PM | Label : Android | 0 Comments

Only about a week longer than the event Google I / O 2013 will take place. This is where Google is expected to announce the next version of Android, which can be 5.0 or 4.3 Key Lime Pie Jelly Bean as a number of rumors in the past. So as of now, we have rumors regarding the operating system, features that are expected in the next version of Android? The point should be added to help Google mobile operating system its better, more complete? Invite you to join us for the following article.

1. Some rumors about the new Android

On 31/1 the last in a Qualcomm roadmap leaked that Android 5.0 will be released around May this year, which is timely as Google I / O 2013 took place. Google is a software developer and do not be surprised when it gives its hardware partners (Qualcomm) with information about the new OS version. By day 20/4, sources said site Android Community Android 5.0 will seem to appear on a 4G network using LTE Nexus 4 (previously all Nexus 4 sold globally are only compatible with network although 3G HSPA + chip that supports 4G). But just four days later, the news site said gadgetronica.com internal sources from Google revealed that Android 5.0 will not appear in the Google I / O this time and the release date was moved from 2 to 4 months. The reason given is that Google wants is for his partner to add more time, so that they can complete the process of updating Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean for their existing equipment.

Android 4.3 appearing in the server logs

Besides, the more evidence of Android 4.3 has also appeared in "Gypsy" in the past few weeks, while Android 5.0 is only offered in the form of rumors stopped. Android 4.3 has appeared in the history of access to the site AndroidPolice server, the device also uses it as Nexus 7, Nexus 4. The build was found JWR23B code, in which the first letter (J) similar to all the previous Android Jelly Bean to Android 4.3 is almost certainly still be called by this name. Notably, the 2 range of IP addresses using the Nexus 7/4 above are derived from Google. This is the IP Strip AndroidPolice have access to the new Android version even before they are published. In summary, it is likely that Android 4.3 will be Google products being announced in May rather than Android 5.0.

2. What about Google's new device, why?

As noted above, many recent online rumors that Google will announce a new version of the Nexus 4 is capable of running on 4G LTE networks and built the next version of Android. Inside the machine configuration is similar to the current Nexus 4 with four processor Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro, 2GB RAM, 16GB or 8GB of internal memory, screen 4.7 "1280 x 768. Nexus 5 with "triple sensor" Nikon also listed as rumored, however appears quite likely cyclical low because Google launched the new device is 1 year, whereas only 4 new Nexus was introduced in May 10 last year.

Motorola phone leaked in the past Subtle

Also talk to your phone, Google is expected to launch new smartphones produced by Motorola and now have two "series" rumors related to it. Said first series of X-Phone with a peak configuration, including processor last four, 2GB or 3GB of RAM, screen 5 "Full-HD, water-resistant, high strength, battery up to 3000mAh, 4000mAh even. said the second series of a machine "had enough" of course config is still strong, but Google mostly focuses on battery, more durable. fact, the machine " barely used "had first appeared in the recent Delicate account @ evleaks also publish similar information.

One other hardware are also likely to be unveiled at Google I / O this year is the new generation Nexus 7. Last year also introduced Nexus 7 at Google I / O. When we consider additional product refresh cycle 1 year, the probability of Google "Nexus 7 II" launched even higher than the new Nexus or Motorola. Rumors continue that Asus is a manufacturer of cheap tablet for Google, and prices range from only $ 149 to $ 199, the same as the current Nexus 7.

3. The new features are rumored to be available on Android 4.3/5.0

Linux Kernel 3.8

In last February, page Android Central says Google is working on version 3.8 for Linux kenrel integrated into Android. One of the improvements are worth the price of Linux 3.8 which is less than the amount of RAM consumption, meaning that we have multitasking performance on the Android smartphone and tablet better.

Babel chat service

Google also is reportedly developing a chat service called Babel, it may appear on the web and indispensable app for Android. It was rumored that Babel will be integrated into the next version of Android, and it provides functionality roughly equivalent to Viber, WhatsApp ... Babel could be an attempt by Google to unify multiple messaging services to together, including Talk, Hangouts, Voice, Messenger, Chat for Google Drive and Chat on Google+.

Improving gaming

By the end of last month, MyGlass application source code (to connect phones with Google Glass) that Android will be the feature game focuses on multiplayer games. Accordingly, Android will integrate a number of tools for the multiplayer game, such as playing in real time or turn based, in-game chat, the performance statistics, where the head of the list of the game. Also, an option to invite friends to join the game and reveal the source code of the app. All of the above will help programmers integrate multi-player mode in the game quickly because they do not have to put effort in order to develop the necessary components for each new game. Previously, iOS has a feature for the same purpose as above and call it Apple Game Center. If the information is accurate, it will help to better compete with Android iOS game on the field.

Screenshots leaked files related to Multiplayer Features

Information on the top panel (Leaderboard)

Invite other people to play (Invitation)

The new interface

We do not have many rumors about the interface of the next version of Android, but Google Play based on the new 4.0 release lately maybe we will see a more dynamic interface, more colorful and bright more. Since Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, Google has applied for its operating system called a Holo theme and it includes graphic elements in black, blue, white. This theme is very popular, but many people also have you processed that it looks too dark and monotonous. The move to apply the new colors can help attract more users to the Android, especially the original Android devices such as the Nexus.

4. These features should be added to the Google Android

On the rumors, but now we'll talk to a few things that Google can add to help Android become more complete and better service life.

1. Create a profile using your phone

Profile on CyanogenMod ROM

Currently Android does not provide the profile ("Profile") for us to customize your phone customized purpose and point of use, just install the ROM when Cook or use the new software with the help of this feature . Imagine that at the school or agency you must change the vibration mode manually, at bedtime to turn off data manually is really time consuming. It optimizes system performance through profile features should also be added to optimize Android hardware power. For example, Google can use a profile for the game, then it will use the full power of hardware that does not pay much attention to the issue of battery power. A different profile for saving the battery, another one to help balance performance - battery life. Currently there are also some manufacturers carry this profile to your device, but this figure is not much. If it is part of the operating system, many people will have access to more functional profile.

2. Enhanced support for social networks

Social + widget, part of the social networking features (also known as Social +) on LG phones

iOS is very well integrated with Facebook and Twitter directly on the operating system, Windows Phone also extremely delicious handshake with Facebook to create a system synchronization across all machines with different content. Android is so far also supports synchronization with social networks, but this only happens when we install the app into the social network. This is nothing difficult, but it is still time-consuming and more steps iOS and Windows Phone. The equipment manufacturer has now overcome this drawback by the software itself, for example, LG Social +, Sony systematic Timescape, Samsung Social Hub, but not to take over if Google stands out integrate it into a common component or what? Agree that Google has its own social network Google+ is, however, still there are many other services that people use a lot.

3. Allows you to select multiple contacts at the same time

Android's contacts app also quite useful, but it would be better to allow users to select multiple contacts at once. This feature will be very useful when we want to send a private message or email to multiple people at once. Currently, if users want to send, then we must add addresses turn them into the receiver, time consuming and prone to error. Google should add a check box (checkbox) in front of the contacts app like Gmail's interface to cater for this feature.

4. Sync data between multiple devices together

Often we will sync contacts, calendar, email ... between multiple devices together through a Google account. However, some data systems such as call history, SMS, alarm ... they must use third-party app to sync. Features of the app outside sometimes unstable, the sync does not guarantee instant (because you have to order backup / restore / sync manually) and not everyone can pick up a good enough software. If Google can do it, then it will create an advantage for themselves, the users feel more cheerful and happy.

5. Standardize the headset connected to Android

With iPhone, you can mount virtually any integrated headset controls for volume up and answer the call, including the use of headsets from manufacturers outside. As for Android, a headset is not necessarily the end user with all phones. Of course, the audio features no matter what, then, is the key here controls only. Or if used with many types of function buttons are also different, for example when using the Nexus Galaxy S 3 or 4 times, then press the two buttons on the headset will switch designed tracks, also in HTC One Call just contact the nearest number. To address this situation, people turn to the software such as JAYS Headset Control, but it can not be good by Google standardize on Android using headphones. Remember that the number of users able to solve the error tinkering not much so what are built very precious.

6. Standardization of share options

Three share menu now on Android

Up to the present time, the sharing on Android will be done via the Share button, but it is noteworthy that there are three different ways to allow you to share. The first option appears to share the progress along the list, the second is the large icons and the final grid using a small menu. Even the written application by Google also uses different interfaces share and you can order as verified by the Gallery app, Chrome, YouTube. Many different types of interfaces that our actions are not uniform throughout the system, when they have to manipulate this, when they do that. People programmers call this "inconsistency", one of the things I wanted to sign the application design.

What about you, what features you would like to have on Android 4.3/5.0?