Android 8.0: Oreo

 

Android 8.0 Oreo was a major release of the Android operating system, announced on August 21, 2017. It introduced several new features, performance improvements, and security enhancements. Here are some key features of Android 8.0 Oreo:

1. Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode: Oreo introduced PiP mode, which allowed users to continue watching videos or using certain apps in a small, resizable window while performing other tasks on the device. This feature provided a more efficient multitasking experience.

2. Notification channels: Oreo introduced notification channels, allowing users to have more control over app notifications. Users could customize the behavior and priority of notifications from different apps, allowing for a more personalized notification experience.

3. Notification dots: Oreo introduced notification dots, which appeared as small dots on app icons to indicate the presence of unread notifications. Users could long-press the app icon to preview and interact with the notifications directly from the home screen.

4. Autofill framework: Oreo introduced the Autofill framework, which made it easier for users to fill in forms and login credentials across apps. Users could choose an autofill app to handle form filling, making the process more convenient and secure.

5. Background limits: Oreo introduced stricter background execution limits for apps, aiming to improve overall system performance and battery life. These limits restricted apps' background activities, reducing their impact on device resources.

6. Adaptive icons: Oreo introduced adaptive icons, allowing app developers to create icons that adapt to different device shapes and launcher styles. Adaptive icons provided a more consistent and visually appealing look across different devices and launcher configurations.

7. Smart text selection: Oreo introduced smart text selection, which automatically recognized and selected relevant text based on contextual clues. For example, double-tapping a phone number would select the entire phone number rather than just the word.

8. Project Treble: Oreo introduced Project Treble, a significant architectural change aimed at making it easier and faster for device manufacturers to deliver Android updates. By separating the vendor implementation from the Android framework, it streamlined the update process.

9. Wi-Fi Aware: Oreo introduced Wi-Fi Aware (previously known as Neighbor Awareness Networking or NAN), which enabled devices to discover and communicate with each other directly over Wi-Fi without the need for an internet connection or traditional Wi-Fi access point.

10. Improved battery life and performance: Oreo introduced various performance optimizations, including stricter limits on background processes, better resource management, and improved battery life for both idle and active usage scenarios.

Android 8.0 Oreo brought a range of features and enhancements aimed at improving user experience, performance, and security. It focused on enhancing multitasking, notification management, and system efficiency, while also introducing new capabilities for developers to create adaptive and interactive app experiences.