Android Oreo: A Closer Look
Following on from previous versions such as KitKat, Lollipop, Marshmallow and Nougat, Android have introduced their latest operating system upgrade, this time dubbed Oreo. Android operating systems are named after various sweet treats, chosen in ascending alphabetical order. Version 8.0 was the turn of 'O', and so borrows its name from the iconic cookie we all know and love.
The newest version of Android’s OS promises to be smarter, faster and more powerful than ever before, and is available now on compatible handsets.
Android Oreo Release Date
Android Oreo was released on August 21st, 2017. The upgrade is set to roll out in stages, depending on your phone's manufacturer. Google devices, such as the new Google Pixel 2 and select Nexus devices, can either be bought with Android Oreo pre-installed or upgraded right away.
Other phones meanwhile, from the likes of Sony, Samsung and HTC, should be able to enjoy version 8.0 in the next few months. Predictions based on previous releases expect Android Oreo to appear on most Android smartphones by February 2018, with the majority being updated by the end of the year.
Android Oreo Speed and Security
As expected, Android Oreo will give Android handsets a noticeable boost in the speed department. Apps will launch twice as fast, while background activity is automatically minimised so your phone isn't unnecessarily slowed down. Intelligent auto-fill is also on-hand to enable you to access and use apps at lightning speed.
Always a main priority, Android Oreo takes security seriously. Huge enhancements have been made by Android, thanks to changes in the Android OS framework. Project Treble makes it easier and faster for updates to be delivered to users, while Google Play Protect will work even harder to both protect your data and scan apps.
Android Oreo Navigation
Ever been reading an online article but suddenly needed to access Twitter or Facebook? Thanks to Android Oreo, you don't have to head to the home screen first, before you open a new app. Instead, you can instantly access Instagram, Gmail or anything else straight from your browser.
Viewing your notifications is also swifter than ever. Notification dots mean there's no need to open an app to view new likes and comments. Simply long press on an app for notifications to appear in a pop-up menu. After you've read them, simply swipe away to remove the dot.
Android Oreo Picture-in-Picture
Arguably one of Android Oreo's most exciting features is Picture-in-Picture mode. This allows you to view two apps at once, and is super-useful for watching YouTube or video calling.
If you find yourself watching a video but need to access another app, Picture-in-Picture will shrink the video down to a smaller, resizable window. You can continue watching, while getting on with other essential tasks.
Android Oreo Emojis
Android's emojis have had a facelift, and the 'blob'-style characters have been transformed into something a little more circular and traditional. The new look seems to be a hit so far, and also help with consistency across a range of platforms.
The more emojis the better, and over 60 new variants have been added with the Oreo update, as well as additional skin tones to improve diversity.
Android Oreo Compatible Handsets
The brand-new Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL will arrive running Android Oreo out of the box, and the update is currently ready for download on both the Nexus 6P and Nexus 5X. While some older handsets are not yet ready for the update, lists of compatible devices can usually be found on manufacturers' sites.
Most Android released in the past year, will be able to enjoy Oreo at the moment. These include: Samsung Galaxy S8, Samsung Galaxy Note 8, Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge, LG G6, LG G5, Huawei P10, Sony Xperia XZ Premium, Sony Xperia XZ and all Moto G5 models.
Looking to upgrade your device to one that's compatible with Android Oreo? Take a look at our fantastic contract and SIM-free deals over on Mobiles.co.uk.