A beta version of Android’s next big iteration known as Froyo (Android 2.2.) is out in the wild for testing. It is said to have some fascinating features that Android users will find interesting. The new version of Android will include lots of bug fixes and present some great additions as well. Android 2.2 appears to mainly focus on performance enhancements. The new features may include:
JIT Compiler: Just-in-time compilation enables a gadget to work faster, it has a positive effect on battery life, too. At Google I/O Android engineers will lead a workshop to inform developers how to test and tune their apps to work with the new compiler.
Automatic App Updates: It will make a big difference for both Android developers and Android phone users. Now one does not have to spend the whole day upgrading his or her favourite apps. The operating system does the heavy lifting itself.
FM Radio: The feature meets requirements of passionate users who can not miss some morning show, or local community radio station announcements for the latest in the local independent music scene.
New Linux kernel: Google is moving from 2.6.29 to the newer 2.6.32 Linux kernel. The latest version of the kernel actually uses less RAM — freeing it up for applications to use.
OpenGL improvements: New APIs to the Android NDK will unleash OpenGL ES 2.0’s entire library to developers which will contribute to gaming graphics and performance.
Flash 10.1: Due to the latest war actions unleashed between Apple and Adobe, the feature people have been clamoring for years, has come true with Google’s Android. Froyo will enjoy Flash support.
Color Trackball: It seems to be a not-so-vital-option, which though can serve as a great notifier for things. With color added, the feature can serve a multitude of different purposes, limited only to developers imaginations.
Nexus One and some Verizon phones will get the OS in late May. The most useful tip is to gaze expectantly toward the Google I/O conference on May 19. Considering Android 2.0 got a full features demo at that meetup last year, users can get at least a bit of info concerning the latest Google breakthroughs as well as chances are good that Froyo will be presented at the show, too.
