Introduction
Android 6, also known as Android Marshmallow, is the sixth major version of the Android operating system. Released in October 2015, this update brought significant improvements to the user experience, security, and functionality of Android devices. This article will cover the key features and enhancements introduced by Android Marshmallow, exploring how these changes impacted both users and developers.
New Features and Enhancements
Now on Tap
One of the most exciting features of Android Marshmallow is Now on Tap. This innovative feature allows users to access relevant information and actions directly from the screen they are currently viewing. By simply holding down the home button (or swiping up on some devices), users can see a card with information related to their current activity. For example, if you are reading an article about a new restaurant, Now on Tap can provide you with information about the restaurant, including reviews and reservation options.
Android Pay
Android Marshmallow was closely tied to the introduction of Android Pay, Google's mobile payments system. This feature allows users to make purchases using their devices by linking their credit or debit cards to the Google Wallet app. Android Pay integrates seamlessly with the operating system, providing a secure and convenient way to make transactions.
Runtime Permissions
One of the most significant security enhancements in Android Marshmallow is the introduction of runtime permissions. Unlike previous versions where apps would request all necessary permissions at installation time, Marshmallow requires apps to ask for specific permissions each time they need access to certain features of the device. This approach gives users more control over their data and privacy, allowing them to approve or deny permission requests on a need-to-use basis.
Fingerprint Support
Marshmallow introduced support for fingerprint readers, which allows users to unlock their devices and authorize payments using their fingerprints. This feature was initially available on Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P devices but has since become a standard feature in many Android devices.
Redesigned App Drawer
The app drawer in Marshmallow has undergone a significant redesign. It now features a search bar at the top, making it easier for users to find specific apps quickly. The app drawer also uses a vertical scrolling layout instead of horizontal scrolling, which is reminiscent of earlier Android versions.
Doze and App Standby
To improve battery life, Marshmallow introduced two power-saving features: Doze and App Standby. Doze automatically puts the device into a low-power state when it is not being used, similar to how a traditional alarm clock works. App Standby limits the impact of infrequently used apps on the device's battery life by restricting their background activities.
Impact on Users
Enhanced Security
The introduction of runtime permissions and fingerprint support significantly enhanced the security of Android devices. Users now have more control over their data and can approve or deny permission requests from apps, reducing the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive information. The use of fingerprints for unlocking devices and authorizing payments adds an additional layer of security, making it more difficult for unauthorized individuals to access personal data.
Improved User Experience
Now on Tap and the redesigned app drawer contribute to an improved user experience by providing quick access to relevant information and making it easier to find installed apps. These features streamline the way users interact with their devices, making everyday tasks more efficient and convenient.
Better Battery Life
The inclusion of Doze and App Standby features helps extend the battery life of Android devices. By automatically putting the device into a low-power state when it is not in use and limiting the background activities of infrequently used apps, these features ensure that the device's battery lasts longer, reducing the need for frequent recharging.
Impact on Developers
Adapting to New Permissions Model
Developers had to adapt their apps to the new runtime permissions model introduced by Marshmallow. This required them to request specific permissions each time an app needed access to certain features of the device, rather than requesting all necessary permissions at installation time. This change necessitated a reevaluation of how apps handle permissions, ensuring that users have more control over their data and privacy.
Implementing Fingerprint Support
To take advantage of the fingerprint support feature, developers had to integrate fingerprint readers into their apps. This involved adding code to handle fingerprint authentication and authorization, which added complexity but also provided a secure way for users to unlock apps and authorize transactions.
Optimizing for Power-Saving Features
Developers needed to optimize their apps for the power-saving features introduced by Marshmallow. This included ensuring that apps did not consume excessive battery life when running in the background and implementing strategies to minimize their impact on the device's power consumption. By doing so, developers could ensure that their apps remained functional while also contributing to better overall device performance.
Device Support and Updates
Initial Release Devices
Android Marshmallow was initially released for Nexus devices, including the Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Nexus 9, Nexus Player, and Google Pixel C. These devices were the first to receive the update, providing users with early access to the new features and enhancements.
Wide Availability
Following the initial release, Marshmallow was gradually rolled out to other Android devices from various manufacturers. Samsung, for example, announced plans to provide the update for its Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 edge devices starting from February 15, 2016, with other devices following soon after.
Manufacturer-Specific Updates
The availability of Marshmallow updates varied depending on the manufacturer and specific models. Sony, for instance, made the update available for several Xperia models but noted that software updates were released at different times depending on the operator, market, region, or country.
Final Thoughts
Android 6, or Marshmallow, marked a significant milestone in the evolution of the Android operating system. With its focus on enhancing security, improving user experience, and optimizing battery life, Marshmallow set a new standard for mobile operating systems. The introduction of runtime permissions, fingerprint support, Now on Tap, and redesigned app drawer features all contributed to making Android devices more secure and user-friendly. As technology continues to advance, understanding the impact and implications of such updates is crucial for both users and developers alike.
By embracing these changes and leveraging the new capabilities introduced by Marshmallow, both individuals and organizations can harness the full potential of their Android devices, ensuring they remain at the forefront of mobile technology.
