Google I/O 2016: Android N will drastically improve the performance of your smartphone
By as much as 75%!
Android N (Nutella?) is the next iteration of Android's platform which is set for launch later this year, and it includes a bunch of exciting new features.
Us Pocket Gamers are mostly interested in what that means for, well, the games. So let's focus on the new Vulkan graphics API for now.
It's essentially Android's very own version of Metal, and it promises to deliver not only vastly improved visuals but far better performance as well. As much as 75% better, to put a number on it.
It also drastically reduces the space apps will take up on your device, so we can probably (well, hopefully) expect to see more console and PC games make the transition to mobile when it releases.
That performance improvement is across the board though, and is designed to improve general productivity.
Your multitasking bar, for example, will now only reveal the last seven apps you've used, and there's a clear all button in place to shutdown all apps at once. Easy peasy.
Some iOS features we've been crying out for are also making the transition, like split-screen modes, and the ability to watch a video in the corner of your device while working.
You can also respond to messages from the notification itself, rather than open up an app.
Finally, there's VR Mode, which is designed for use with Google's incredibly exciting new VR platform, Daydream.
You can join the Android N beta right now if you own a Nexus device or a Pixel C tablet, or help name Android N here. Our money's still on Nutella.
