Android 9.0 (Pie)

Despite Google choosing a rather simple emblem in the form of a cherry pie for its new OS, the capabilities of the platform are truly remarkable. Currently, the list of mobile devices that will receive the ninth version of the “Green Robot” is not very extensive (devices from the Google Pixel series and the Essential Phone), but by autumn, the software giant promises to introduce a streamlined Android Pie Go Edition even for budget devices.

So, what innovations does the operating system introduced in May offer to users? First and foremost, it features a new gesture-based navigation system. Instead of three software buttons at the bottom of the screen, there is now a single “Home” button, which, in one motion, opens the five most essential apps according to the system, or (with a secondary upward swipe) displays all currently running applications on the smartphone.

Secondly, with the advancement of artificial intelligence, Google had a moral obligation to integrate this technology into its new product. Therefore, Android Pie includes several AI-based innovations. The first is called Adaptive Battery, where the system analyzes the frequency of the user’s launch of specific apps and tries to prioritize using the remaining battery power for them, assuming they are crucial to the user.

The technology called Adaptive Brightness allows the system to analyze the user’s display brightness adjustments in various situations. After this learning process, the OS can accurately adjust the screen brightness intensity at the right moments. The operating system also remembers actions the user regularly performs at the same time and tries to provide relevant suggestions based on this. For example, if you consistently make calls to the same person in the evening, the OS will remind you with a special notification, and in the morning, it will suggest it’s time to go for a run.

Another new feature is the “Digital Wellbeing” technology, which incorporates multiple useful functions according to Google’s programmers. Whereas users could previously only see the amount of energy consumed by a specific program, they can now analyze the frequency of app usage. If desired, there’s an option to regulate the usage time for a specific application, for example, setting time limits for viewing posts and publications on a favorite social network, and more.

The Shush feature can be useful for many, as it allows you to disable all sound signals by turning your mobile device face down. However, messages or calls from people on your exceptions list will still come through. Those who enjoy using their smartphone before bedtime while comfortably lying in bed may find the Wind Down mode interesting. This feature automatically enhances the gray tones in the screen’s backlight after a user-defined time, for instance, right after midnight (if you don’t want to sleep, there’s no harm in disabling it).

These are the key but far from all the innovations that Android Pie has received from its developers. Rounded corners in the interface, full support for notches at the top of the screen (iPhone X being the trendsetter, of course), improved security through biometric protection, and a whole list of smaller “innovations” take mobile device operation and user interaction to a completely new level of quality and comfort.