Android 9: Pie

 

Android 9 Pie was a major release of the Android operating system, announced on August 6, 2018. It introduced several new features, visual changes, and performance optimizations to enhance the user experience. Here are some key features of Android 9 Pie:

1. Gesture navigation: Pie introduced a new navigation system based on gestures. Users could navigate the device by swiping on the home button, eliminating the need for traditional navigation buttons. Gestures allowed for more immersive and intuitive navigation.

2. Adaptive Battery: Pie introduced Adaptive Battery, which used machine learning to analyze app usage patterns and prioritize battery resources accordingly. It identified and restricted battery usage for infrequently used apps, resulting in improved battery life.

3. Adaptive Brightness: Pie introduced Adaptive Brightness, which used machine learning to adjust the screen brightness based on user preferences and the surrounding environment. It learned from the user's manual adjustments to provide a personalized brightness level.

4. App Actions: Pie introduced App Actions, which predicted and displayed relevant app actions based on the user's context. For example, it could suggest calling a frequently contacted person or resuming playback of a recently listened to podcast.

5. Slices: Pie introduced Slices, which provided snippets of app content and actions directly in search results or other places on the device. Users could interact with app functionalities without opening the full app.

6. Digital Wellbeing: Pie introduced Digital Wellbeing tools to help users manage their device usage and maintain a healthy balance. It included features like app timers, Do Not Disturb mode, Wind Down mode, and a dashboard to track screen time.

7. App Dashboard: Pie introduced an App Dashboard that displayed detailed insights into app usage patterns, including the amount of time spent on specific apps and notifications received. This feature aimed to promote digital wellness and self-awareness.

8. Screenshot editing and markup: Pie introduced a built-in screenshot editor, allowing users to quickly crop, annotate, and share screenshots without relying on third-party apps.

9. Enhanced privacy and security: Pie introduced several privacy and security improvements, including restricting background app access to microphone and camera, requiring HTTPS for app connections, and improving security patching through Project Treble.

10. Notch support and visual changes: Pie introduced support for devices with display notches and introduced a new look for the Quick Settings panel and Settings menu. It featured a more rounded design and a refreshed color scheme.

Android 9 Pie focused on improving the overall user experience, enhancing device intelligence, and promoting digital well-being. It introduced several AI-powered features, privacy enhancements, and visual changes to provide a more intuitive and efficient Android experience.