The “Developer Preview” version of Android N, which set to receive a public release in the summer, contains several new features, notably multi-window applications that can be used across more than one device, updated notifications, and better power efficiency.
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Android users have been able to tweak the system font in the settings menu for quite awhile now, and there’s a new option in Android N that brings that feature to the next level. Users can manually install it with the link above (but wipe out their device) or sign up for the Android N Beta OTA program and get actual over the air updates right from Google, no flashing insane software required.
The Verge has a rundown of what’s inside the developer preview, including new split-screen modes, a feature several hardware makers have been hacking away at already. On TVs, apps can use picture-in-picture mode to continue video playback while users are interacting with another app. This is a big deal because it will allow developers to take advantage of Java 8’s features and still target devices running systems as old as Android 2.3 Gingerbread.
Despite the early release, Google did not share the name for N. It likes to pick sweet monikers; Lollipop and Marshmallow were the last two. Participation in the program is free and only requires developers to download the Android N Developer Preview tools. The program is now targeted towards developers and is not suitable for use on your primary device (see known issues). Previously, N was not expected roll out to devices until fall 2016.
Multi-window – A new manifest attribute called android:resizableActivity is available for apps targeting N and beyond.
Google is previewing the next version of its Android operating system two months ahead of schedule in an effort to get the upgraded software on more mobile devices.
Google typically hasn’t released test versions of Android until its annual developers’ conference, which begins May 18 this year.
Android has had issues with the Notifications tab in earlier editions. Google makes it pretty clear that the preview is not meant for consumers (a consumer trial will be offered later this year).
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Android N: How can you get the developer preview? We were just as surprised as you were. Well, it’s back in Android N, making your smartphone or tablet display that much easier on the eyes in a dark room.
