Google Releases Updated Version of Android N Preview, Includes New Vulkan and Emoji
An update on Google's upcoming software, Android N, has recently surfaced and this time, there are new features that will delight many. According to a report by BGR, the tech giant released the second Android N Developer Preview online and as an over-the-air update for Android Beta Program participants.
Pocket-Lint detailed that some of its impressive new features include the new Vulkan 3D rendering API. The source noted that this particular feature is made to aid developers in giving their heavy apps a noteworthy lift in terms of performance. This is specially fit for apps that require more power than usual. It's also identified to be similar to DirectX 12 in Windows or Metal in iOS and OS X.
Aside from that, the update introduced the "launcher shortcuts." The Verge noted that this particular feature allows apps to make shortcuts in Android's launcher which will in turn direct to specific actions inside that app. These shortcuts are said to come with an intent making it easier for users to navigate home in a mapping app, sending a message to someone and others.
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Another cool new feature is the Emoji Unicode 9 support. As explained in Google's blog page, they are adding a new emoji design for people emoji. It is said to have strayed away from the generic look in order to bring in a more "human-looking" design. There's also a support for skin tone variations and Unicode 9 glyphs. And the emoji that everyone's been waiting for are here as well like bacon, selfie and face palm. The company encourages keyboard and messaging app developers to start incorporating these emoji into their apps.
For those who are interested to get the update and future preview updates, Google said that they should be enrolling their devices in the Android Beta Program. Those who have enrolled will be receiving the update shortly. Also, the N Developer Preview is available for Nexus 5X, Nexus 6, Nexus 6P, Nexus 9 and Pixel C devices.
