Google has finally taken the wraps off its Nexus 5 smartphone, which will come pre-loaded with the latest Android 4.4 KitKat OS.
The software update brings several new features and enhancements users' way and we take a look at why Android 4.4 KitKat is delicious.
New Dialer app
Android 4.4 KitKat brings a new Dialer app that has integrated search functionality users' way. This feature basically means that users can type in the name of any business and look it up immediately.
The Dialer app also makes available caller ID information when a user receives calls from a number that is not stored in their contact list. Moreover, there is also an auto-populating section which shows the most frequently called numbers as favorites.
Immersive Mode
The OS also brings the immersive mode option for apps. Developers can hide all the on-screen elements (like the status bar and navigation buttons) and bring an edge-to-edge experience. In the immersive mode, users can swipe from the bottom or top of the screen to reveal the hidden interface elements temporarily.
Wireless Printing
The software update also brings the new PrintSystem-wide wireless printing feature, which basically means that with Android 4.4 KitKat under the hood, any app can print wirelessly via services like HP ePrint or Google Cloud Print. One does not require any third-party add-ons as everything is in-built in the OS.
SMS/MMS Video Chat
The old Messaging app is replaced by a refreshed Hangouts app which brings with it a new SMS/MMS video chat experience. Chat-related functionality has been incorporated and works across cross platforms.
Improved Cloud Storage Integration
With Android 4.4 KitKat, users will be able to access cloud storage effortlessly. Moreover, any developer has the option to add support for cloud services and, therefore, one can save, open and manage remote files easily.
Android 4.4 KitKat also brings improvements under the hood, for instance, it is designed to run smoothly on any Android phone, including devices with as little memory capacity as 512MB of RAM. The optimizations would theoretically work even better for top-end devices and improve performance further.
KitKat also has a new method for NFC as Android 4.4 uses the Host Card Emulation, which enables NFC-supported services (like Google Wallet) to function without accessing the secure element.
Moreover, there is support for IR blasters, low power sensors and new Bluetooth profiles. There is also a new screen recorder tool, which enables users to capture high quality video.
