Android Marshmallow, also known as Android M, is Google's latest Android operating system update next to Lollipop. Recently, Google has released the third developer's preview build which came with new features. Some of the hottest updates that Android Marshmallow offers to Android users are the new App Permissions update, battery usage statistics, and Android Pay.
As the release date for Android M draws nearer and nearer each day, continuous improvements are being made and added to the new software. One of the biggest updates that customers are looking forward to in Android Marshmallow is the App Permissions update. According to a Tech First report, the current system involves apps asking for permission during pre-install, which turns off some users. In Android Marshmallow, apps only ask for authorization if the user is using a specific feature in the app that requires permission. In short, the App Permissions update lets the user identify which functions in the app are necessary and grant permission as needed.
Another update present in the most recent developer's preview was the addition of the battery usage information as informed by Tech Times. This gives users additional details on how much battery life is consumed by an app. It is labeled as "Computed power use" in the battery usage field of the phone and is measured in mAh (milli-amp hours).
Vine Report says that another feature dealing with battery preservation is Android Marshmallow's Doze which regulates the battery consumption of apps running in the background. It was also discovered that Doze was able to prolong Nexus 9's battery life by two hours as compared to when the phone was running on Lollipop.
There is also the new Android Pay feature that makes mobile payments hassle-free using near-field communication (NFC), says Tech First. Taking the place of Google Wallet, Android Pay will utilize card emulation techniques for tap-to-pay services. Google places its confidence that Android Pay will offer customers a more secure and convenient payment method.
One more update from Android Marshmallow is dubbed as Google Now on Tap. This feature enables the user to search for information without having to quit an app. The user just has to tap and hold on the screen and Google will show options on what it thinks the user best needs at that particular moment.
Gradually, the software update takes its final form, the official Android Marshmallow which will debut on October this year. It is scheduled to roll out on specific LG and Samsung devices alongside the unveiling of the new Nexus phones.
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