Google Android 4.4 KitKat

Over the years, Google has accustomed us to the liturgy "Nexus", according to which for every new terminal there must be a new release of the Android operating system (be it a minor update or a completely revised version). The Nexus 5 is no exception and, as dictated by tradition, its launch was accompanied by the release of Android 4.4 KitKat, which we have already spoken in the past on the occasion of the announcement jointly Nestle-Google and the first rumors about its features.

According to Sundar Pichai, Vice President of Google, Android 4.4 introduces an important innovation compared to its predecessors, as it can be installed on all Android devices. "Until now, the limited memory of the first smartphones and tablets Android does not allow you to install newer versions of the operating system. KitKat With Android we have reduced memory usage, for example by eliminating unnecessary background services or reducing the amount of memory required for functions widely used " .

Google announces that, in services such as Chrome and YouTube, the memory consumption is significantly reduced and even devices with only 512MB of RAM will run Android 4.4 KitKat. This latest release, then, it is an operating system that can be installed on smartphones top-of-range but also on entry-level models, the most sold and also present in emerging markets. Android KitKat is "able to detect the power of the smartphone" and the developers will be able to adapt their applications according to this parameter that will be provided by the OS.

What will change?  The interface of KitKat changes little and looks a lot like Jelly Bean, though with some graphical differences (for example, the status bar has become dull and that navigation will vary with use). The application Phone, which has not changed for many people especially since traditional mobile phones, it is now easier allowing you to search your contacts, nearby places and even among the accounts associated with the Google app (such as the corporate directory) directly from the application.

In terms of functionality, Google has introduced a new system of launching applications, while Google Now is activated by swiping your finger to the left.

With the command "OK, Google" you can activate using the Google voice search, send a message, get directions, or even listen to a song. Now in the coming weeks will be further improved through the new cards that will give access to contextual information of interest such as updates from your favorite websites or blogs.

Now there is an application that allows you to interact with other programs, functions Hangout recovers SMS/MMS(which will be organized in one place, along with other conversations and video calls. This way you will never lose sight of a message, regardless of how it was sent), while applying Photos + HDR function appears KitKat.

In the coming weeks the Android platform 4.4 KitKat integrated into the Nexus 5 will also be available for Nexus 4, 7 and 10, the Samsung Galaxy S4 and HTC One Google Play edition in the coming weeks.