History of Android Q
Android Q, initially unveiled by Google on March 13, 2019, marked a significant milestone in the evolution of the Android operating system. The first beta release was exclusive to Google Pixel devices, including the first-generation Pixel and Pixel XL, which received extended support due to popular demand. The Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL also received updates to Android 10, despite their initial guarantee of updates only up to October 2018. This extended support was granted due to their popularity and the significant user base they maintained.
The beta program for Android Q expanded significantly with the release of Beta 3 on May 7, 2019. This version was made available on 14 partner devices from 11 OEMs, more than twice the number of devices that participated in the beta program for Android Pie. However, due to U.S. government sanctions, access to the Huawei Mate 20 Pro was temporarily removed from the beta program on May 21, 2019. This restriction was later lifted on May 31, 2019.
Features of Android Q
Smart Reply for Messaging Apps
One of the most notable features introduced in Android Q is Smart Reply for messaging apps. This feature allows users to receive suggested responses while using messaging apps like Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp. Smart Reply uses on-device machine learning to predict what the user might want to say, making it easier and faster to respond to messages. This feature not only saves time but also ensures that responses are more accurate and appropriate.
Restricted Location Access
Android Q introduced a significant enhancement in user privacy with the feature of restricted location access. Unlike previous versions where apps could access the device's location for the entire duration they were installed, Android Q allows users to grant location access only when the app is in use. This feature restricts access to the serial number, IMEI, and other device identifiers, providing users with more control over their personal data.
Live Caption
Live Caption is another groundbreaking feature introduced in Android Q. This feature adds captions to video or audio being played on the device, making it accessible for users with hearing impairments. Live Caption works with various apps like YouTube, Pocket Casts, and Instagram, and it does not require an internet connection to function. The feature relies on machine learning to provide accurate captions, making it a valuable addition for users who rely on audio content.
Dark Theme
The Dark Theme, also known as Dark Mode, is a highly anticipated feature in Android Q. This theme enables users to use their devices in low-light environments more comfortably. The Dark Theme reduces power consumption by turning off pixels on OLED screens, which can significantly extend battery life. Additionally, the theme applies to both app interfaces and the system UI, providing a consistent and visually appealing experience for users.
Parental Control
Android Q includes a built-in parental control feature known as Family Link. This feature allows parents to monitor and control their children's mobile usage. Parents can set daily screen time limits, approve app installs, and even review the duration for which their children use specific apps. The Family Link feature also allows kids to request additional time for using apps, which parents can approve or deny.
Gesture Navigation
The navigation system in Android Q has undergone significant changes with the introduction of gesture navigation. This new system replaces the traditional back, home, and recent apps buttons with gestures that can be performed on the screen. Users can swipe from either side edge of the display to go back, swipe up to go to the home screen, swipe up and hold to access the Overview, and swipe diagonally from a bottom corner of the screen to activate the Google Assistant. The use of edge swiping gestures as a "Back" command was noted as potentially causing conflicts with apps that utilize sidebar menus and other functions accessible by swiping. However, an API was provided to allow apps to opt out of handling back gestures within specific areas of the screen, and a sensitivity control was added for adjusting the size of the target area to activate the gesture.
Better Support for Foldable Phones
Google has taken foldable phones more seriously with Android Q. The operating system now supports features like pausing an app by folding the screen and resuming it when the screen is unfolded again. Additionally, the ability to resize apps is also considered, which is particularly useful for users of foldable devices like the Huawei X and Galaxy Fold.
Privacy and Security Enhancements
Android Q places a strong emphasis on user privacy and security. The operating system includes several enhancements aimed at protecting users' sensitive information. Here are some key privacy and security features introduced in Android Q:
- Location Permissions: Android Q allows users to grant location access only when an app is in use, providing more control over personal data.
- Device Identifiers: The update restricts access to device identifiers like serial numbers and IMEIs, ensuring that sensitive information is not shared without user consent.
- Background App Restrictions: Android Q restricts background app launch, which helps in reducing battery drain and improving overall device performance.
- Camera/Mic Background Access: The OS locks down camera and microphone background access, ensuring that these sensitive resources are not used without explicit user permission.
- Project Strobe: Android Q is part of Google's Project Strobe, which aims to enhance security and privacy features across the Android ecosystem. This includes features like file-based encryption, OS controls requiring apps to request permission before accessing sensitive resources, and encrypted backups.
Other Notable Features
NFC Peer-to-Peer Sharing
One feature that was not included in Android Q is NFC peer-to-peer sharing. This method, which allowed data transfer by placing smartphones back-to-back, was part of earlier versions but was removed in this update. Google confirmed that this feature would not be included in the final software release.
Project MainLine
Project MainLine is an initiative by Google aimed at speeding up software updates. The project takes direct responsibility for software updates and backend delivery via the Play Store, reducing the need for full system updates. This approach is expected to make updates less disruptive to users and faster for third-party manufacturers.
Compatible Devices
Android Q was initially available for Google Pixel devices, including the first-generation Pixel and Pixel XL. The update was later expanded to other devices from various OEMs. Some of the compatible devices include:
- Asus ZenFone 5Z
- Nokia 8.1
- Xiaomi Mi 9
- Essential Phone
- LG G8
- Oppo Reno
- Vivo X27
- OnePlus 6T
These devices were part of the developer preview and later received the final update once it was released.
