Google pulled a number of surprises out of its hat at this year’s IO conference, which was largely dedicated to its Chrome and Android projects. First, the company revealed Android 3.1, which adds UI improvements and USB host functionality for storage media and accessories including game controllers. Google also announced its next major revision, codenamed Ice Cream Sandwich. Though a version number was not announced, this will be tie release that unifies Android’s tablet and smartphone UIs.
Other major announcements included the much awaited Google Music Cloud Service, essentially an online locker that will let users access their libraries from multiple devices. HD movie rentals have also come to the Android marketplace, and can similarly be watched on a variety of devices. The new Android at Home project is aimed at using Android devices to control home automation, including lighting, thermostats, and eventually appliances via simple wi-fi commands.
On the Chrome side of the fence, Google showed off upcoming “Chromebooks” from Acer and Samsung, running the soon to be final ChromeOS. Chromebooks will turn on in a few seconds and user will be able to access file manager to browse through stored media. A rental model will brings costs down to as little as $20 per month for the business and education markets. The Chrome browser itself gets a ton of new features including voice-powered search and translation, GPU acceleration, and a Web Store for app purchase, including, ofcourse, Angry Birds.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I was impressed by the recently launched voice serach and I think this new technology will minimize the time and provide ease while searching.
I like the helpful info you provide in your articles.
I’ll bookmark your weblog and check once more right here frequently. I am relatively sure I will be informed many new stuff proper here! Best of luck for the following!