Electronics Weekly
Access to the latest major version of its mobile and embedded operating system will widen to other devices “over the coming months”, says Google.
Features of the release include support for use of ‘Bubbles’, a new notifications section, built-in screen recording and new media controls. There’s also 5G connectivity, UI support for foldable screens and faster messaging.
What are Bubbles? They make it easy for users to see and participate in conversations, says Google.
“Bubbles are built into the Notification system. They float on top of other app content and follow the user wherever they go. Bubbles can be expanded to reveal app functionality and information, and can be collapsed when not being used. When the device is locked or the always-on-display is active, bubbles appear just as a notification normally would.”
In terms of privacy and control over your data, one-time permissions in Android 11 will allow you to give single use access to sensitive permissions, such as around your microphone, camera and location. The next time the app needs access it must ask you for your permission again.
And if you haven’t used an app in a while then you might not want it to keep accessing your data. Android will now “auto-reset” permissions for such unused apps and notify. You can always choose to “re-grant” permissions the next time you use the app.
Dave Burke, VP of Android Engineering at Google, also highlights:
“Android Auto now works wirelessly for all phones running Android 11 as long as you have a compatible vehicle. So you can bring the best of your phone on every drive while skipping the cable—get directions with a tap, talk to send a text, play your favorite media and get help from Google Assistant.”
See also: Google releases Android 11 in Beta form
