Google I/O 2015: Top 5 Things You Need To Know

Google I/O 2015: Top 5 Things You Need To Know
G

As a mobile operating system, Android has come a long ways since the early days. Tweaks and tunes with some removing and replacing, Google has groomed Android into the premier smartphone platform of the entire world. That’s not to say Apple and iOS is bad or small, Android just has the universal reach of afforded by having many different hardware manufacturers who can create devices for all the different markets around the world. However, Google is much more than just Android and Google I/O 2015 revealed some additions to Android but also some announcements related to other products such as Google Cardboard. Let’s jump in!

74a6a97d_Screen_Shot_2015-05-28_at_10.34.47_AM.xxxlarge

Android

The first three things are going to be Android related, I’m sorry! The first is the addition of Doze, an intelligent battery saving mode. Basically, it learns your habits, recognizing when you won’t be using your phone for a long period of time and then engaging a mode akin to hibernation on your computer which will improve battery life by killing unnecessary background apps. A simple idea with a ton of potential but we’ll have to wait and see the real world tests for a gauge of true value. The second is the Android Pay system which isn’t revolutionary by any means but does represent Google’s commitment to contactless payment systems. Android Pay works exactly like Apple Pay with mandatory fingerprint identification.

The third is called Now On Tap. The simple version is Google has improved its text recognition software to the point of being viable in normal smartphone activities and thus providing additional information with just a tap. Say you get a text message about wanting to see a new movie; pressing the Home button will bring up the relevant movie times at the closest locations without requiring manual input or app switching. The possibilities with this are crazy to think about and I’m looking forward to seeing it in action.

LEOZK7id

Google Photos and Cardboard

The last two announcements are updates to existing products: Photos and Cardboard. Google Photos has been updated to allow for free, unlimited photo storage for all users. No more worrying about how much space you have left in DropBox, you can just put on the auto backup and snap away to your heart’s content. A seriously classy move on the part of Google who could have easily charged a pretty penny for this opportunity.

Finally, Google Cardboard is receiving a partner in an effort to bring truly immersive media to the masses: Jump. Jump is an array of camera modules pieced together to provide a 360 degree view of its surroundings. Combining the improved Cardboard (now fits larger devices), Jump will be seen in action on YouTube once its released.

There you have it, my top 5 things from Google I/O 2015, what announcements did you like?

Weston is our professional gadget reviewer. Nothing thrills him more than being able to get his hands on the latest and greatest in electronics.
1
Join the Discussion

You Might Also Like

4 Cryptocurrency trends for 2024 and beyond

4 Cryptocurrency trends for 2024 and beyond

Keeping up with the latest developments in the cryptocurrency market is handy for investors looking to maximize their investments. Doing so enables you to make smart investment choices while maximizing profits. For that reason, we’re highlighting the top 4 cryptocurrency..
LEFEET P1 underwater scooter: ideal for exploring shipwrecks and caves

LEFEET P1 underwater scooter: ideal for exploring shipwrecks and caves

I live near the sea and try to explore the depths whenever I can. Over the years, I’ve found that an underwater scooter is an excellent way to cover more mileage while I’m beneath the waves. So I was thrilled..
What is OSS in telecom? Information, benefits & product examples

What is OSS in telecom? Information, benefits & product examples

What is OSS in telecom? OSS stands for Operational Support Systems. These software systems enable efficient and effective management of telecommunications services and network management. Telecommunications operators use such solutions. Today, many options make it easier to manage and connect..
HeatsBox Go review: this heated lunch box warms your meals in 15–25 minutes

HeatsBox Go review: this heated lunch box warms your meals in 15–25 minutes

If I’m on the go all day, I hit up McDonald’s or Panera for lunch. Lately, however, I’ve been trying to cook more of my food at home. The trouble is, bringing casseroles and other cooked dishes with me has..
MWC Barcelona 2024: flying taxis, bendable phones & so much more

MWC Barcelona 2024: flying taxis, bendable phones & so much more

As chief business development officer (CBDO) of Gadget Flow, I love witnessing new tech releases to the consumer market. At MWC 2024, I got the chance to experience firsthand some of the latest ideas and innovations that will impact our..
These 6 technologies give your business 5-star customer service ratings

These 6 technologies give your business 5-star customer service ratings

Years ago, all it took to run a successful business was an innovative product that customers wanted. After that, everything else was secondary. You could succeed with relatively high prices. You could even get by with subpar customer service technologies...