All New Android Marshmallow Features
Google today announced the developer preview of the latest Android release. As usual, this new version of Android M will be out later this year. However, those with certain Nexus devices can download the preview starting today. Here’s what’s in store for the next version of Android.
If you are adventurous and own a Nexus 5, 6, 9 or player, you can install the Android M Developer Preview now. Check out our guide for instructions.
You now have more control over app permissions
One of Android’s biggest problems from the start was the all-or-nothing approach to permissions . You can either give the app permission to use whatever it asks for, or not install it at all. In Android M, the permissions will work as in iOS. You can install an app without giving it multiple permissions at once. For example, when he wants to use your microphone or camera, he will ask you when the app needs it . You can revoke this permission later if you want the application to not use your microphone when you do not specifically allow it. This should help solve the problem of applications asking for multiple permissions without necessarily explaining what they are for .
Fingerprint support means the (almost) end of passwords and PINs for certain phones
Android M will be the first version of Android to support fingerprinting at the API level. This means that if your phone has a fingerprint reader , apps can use your fingerprint for authorization instead of a password or PIN. This includes apps like password managers as well as payment apps like Android Pay.
Android Pay redefines Google mobile payments (again)
Google has made several attempts to break into mobile payments, but it hasn’t necessarily caught on. Android Pay is the latest effort to make it easier to pay using NFC or platform-enabled apps. You can also unblock payments using your fingerprint if the app supports the APIs listed above. Google has not clarified how it will interact with Google Wallet and whether it will replace it entirely.
Direct sharing allows you to send content to shared contacts
The Share menu in Android is already pretty cool, but it can also be difficult to send photos or links to shared contacts. Android M has a new feature called Direct Share that gives you quick links to messaging with a specific person through a specific app. So, if you often send your important photos via Hangouts, Android M will recognize this habit and offer one button for you to share directly.
Text selection is much better, floating toolbar added
Choosing text can be very annoying on any mobile device, but Android isn’t always leading the way. The new version of Android will include improved text highlighting, where text will be highlighted one word at a time. Then you can pull the handle backward to select a letter. Perhaps most useful, Android M will have a floating toolbar that offers cut, copy and paste buttons, so you no longer need to decipher obscure action bar icons.
Volume controls were simplified (after Lollipop screwed up)
Android Lollipop has changed the way volume controls work. The changes were so annoying that Google itself admitted that the new version was terrible. However, the company also announced that new volume controls in Android M will make it easier to independently change system volume, music volume, or alarm volume.