Android 5.0 Lollipop: The Latest and Greatest Update Yet

Android 5.0 Lollipop: The Latest and Greatest Update Yet

After a long wait, we finally have the future of Android. It was first unveiled as “Android L” in June 2014 before being officially named Lollipop (I was hoping for Licorice but oh well). There are some small changes and some big changes with some entirely new inclusions as well that make Lollipop more than just a bug fix update; it’s a proper overhaul of the entire operating system. Let’s dive in!

Android_lollipop

Material Design

This is the biggest change to Android and really the only obvious change to the operating system; it’s all about the new design language. Google Now had been using a card motif to display information and now the rest of the operating system reflects the same motif. The main focus is on giving meaning and reason to how things react to your touch. No more random or illogical transition animations; everything goes somewhere and comes from somewhere. The cards are used in other places too that I’ll touch on later.

The other part of material design is how flat and clean all the icons and apps look. It flattens everything while adding lighting and shadows for depth. I really like how Lollipop looks; the minimalist focus is properly modern and simultaneously refreshing. Even the status icons (WiFi, cell signal, battery life, etc.) have been updated and I think they look so much better than the old. Additionally, this design language will apply to all of Google’s software to provide a cohesive experience.

android-lollipop

Enhancements

As far as enhancements go, it’s about efficiency and speed. There’s a new runtime called ART (Android Runtime) that makes everything faster because technology reasons which is always good. The notification system has been optimized to fit with the new material design language while also affording new functionality without having to unlock the entire phone. Now notifications are displayed as cards on the lock screen instead of just in the banner. The recent apps window is displayed as cards as well; Google loves those cards!

There’s also a couple new functionalities like a new guest mode which allows you to let someone use your phone without giving them access to any of your information. You can even pin one app for someone else’s use and they cannot mess with the rest of your phone. All of this functionality is why I’m an Android guy and why you should love Android too! Lollipop is slowly rolling out for the newest smartphones with the Nexus devices already having access. If you can, download it as soon as possible and try it out!

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