Google finally decided to forego the dessert names for its operating system versions for its newest update. Simply known as Android 10, it is now available to download for all Android phones. With plenty of new features in store for Android users, Google says it will help you use your phone “just the way you want it.”
Android 10: Overview
Initially released by Google under the name Android Q, its beta version initially rolled out as on March 13, 2019. However, it was exclusive for Pixel devices only at the time. After several months of optimization and bug fixes, Google announced that it was ready for download for other supported devices as well.
Rebranding it from Android Q to Android 10, one of the first major changes in this software update is its name. It finally ditched the dessert names that Google has been using before, the last one being Android Pie. Google stated that dessert names were not inclusive especially to international users where the desserts they used were not known and available.
Another update that a lot of users have been anticipating is the new Dark Mode. Updates on accessibility, security, messaging, performance, and digital wellbeing are also available. It’s expected to focus on user-friendliness to make smartphone experience better.
Android 10 Release Date
Take note that not all devices can download Android 10 already. It still depends on the phone brand. Depending on yours, it can take months before your phone can get Android 10, unless you use Google Pixel devices.
Here is a list of some smartphone brands and the tentative dates of when they will release Android 10 for their devices:
- Google Pixel – Available for all Pixel devices
- Nokia – Rolling out on Q4 (2019) to 2020
- OnePlus – Available for OnePlus 7; end of October (OnePlus 6) until 2020 (OnePlus 5)
- Xiaomi – Available for select devices
- Samsung – Available for Note 9, Note 10, S8 and up
- Huawei – Available by October until December
- Motorola – No official update
- Lenovo – No official update
- LG – No official update
Smartphone brands are still testing out Android 10 separately, so different brands have different release dates. You can keep your eyes peeled for updates and information through this website.
What’s New With Android 10?
- System-wide dark mode
- Digital Wellbeing (Focus mode, Family link)
- App permission restrictions
- App Scoped Storage
- Bubbles interface
- Foldable device support
- 5G support
- Live caption
- Privacy and location controls
- Smart reply
- Sound amplifiers
- Gesture navigation
Dark Theme
Following the popularity of ‘dark mode’ or dark themes from apps, as well as iOS’s Smart Invert feature, Android adds this to its OS as well. The Android 10 Dark Theme uses true black color throughout the system Therefore, the entire interface of the phone will be on dark mode, and not just select apps. It also keeps the phone battery alive longer by reducing the use of light.
Data Privacy
Google also fixed several loopholes regarding data privacy from apps. Despite being restricted to access certain data, some apps will scrap the phone’s system for other sources of data to use. Android 10 is said to address this issue by giving the user more control of their privacy settings. They can decide what data is shared, control location sharing, and opt out of ad retargeting.
Digital Wellbeing
Mirroring iOS’s Screen Time, Google also adds Digital Wellbeing to its system update for Android 10. It allows users to manage their screen time using different tools. Focus Mode lets users select app to pause temporarily and turn off distractions. Family Link allows parents and guardians to set screen limits, view app activity, and manage content restrictions on their children’s devices.
Security Enhancements
Users will also get faster security updates as soon as it’s available for their devices. Security and Privacy fixes will be sent directly from Google Play to the phone, similar to how apps are updated regularly.
5G Functionality
Google is proud to share that 5G is only available in Android devices. With the newest system update, Android has added some useful functionalities for 5G devices. New APIs will allow detection of metered data connections, user connection rate, and latency.
Smart Reply
Android 10 also adds Smart Reply. It doesn’t just provide suggestions on what you might want to type in as a reply to your messages. It also recommends actions. For example: if your friend texts to invite you to dinner and you use its suggestion to reply ‘yes’, it will automatically pull up directions to the agreed restaurant in Google Maps. Smart Reply also works with other messaging apps such as Signal, and not just in the built-in messaging app. This aims to make users have easier, more convenient experiences.
Other Notable Features In Android 10
Foldable Device Support
Foldable phones are making a comeback in the near future, and Android 10 is getting ready for it. The update features support for foldable screens and devices. It allows users to seamlessly navigate between folded and unfolded screen states. Android is also proud to be the only OS that supports foldable screens.
Bubbles Multitasking – Android 10
Similar to Messenger chat heads, Android 10 introduces Bubbles, a multi tasking feature. It uses pop-up overlays of apps so you can still do one task on the main screen while being able to see messages, chats, reminders, and tasks. Bubbles was created to address the security issue of clickjacking the existing overlay permission.
Sound Amplifier
You don’t have to upgrade your device in order to get the best audio system. Android 10 has added the Sound Amplifier so you can modify your phone’s audio in a better way. With this, you can boost sounds, filter background noise, and fine tune your sound’s settings. So whether you’re watching a video, making calls, or listening to music, you can hear better with or without using your headphones.
Gesture Navigation
Navigating through your phone is now easier with gestures. All you have to do is swipe right and left, pull up the home screen, or go forwards and backwards in a smooth way. Pixel 3 devices won’t even have to rely on side buttons in the future anymore, since gesture controls are mainly used for this model.
For the best Android emulators in 2019, check out our guide here!
