Overview:
Android 9, codenamed “Pie,” was launched in August 2018. With Pie, Google focused on harnessing the power of artificial intelligence to make the Android experience even more tailored to individual users. The release emphasized intuitive navigation, adaptive battery usage, and user well-being.
History:
Building on the refinements of Oreo, Google’s vision with Pie was to create a more personalized and adaptive Android experience. By leveraging machine learning and AI, Pie aimed to anticipate user needs and optimize system performance accordingly.
Changes:
Pie introduced a series of new features and design changes. A significant shift was the introduction of gesture-based navigation, moving away from the traditional navigation buttons. The platform also emphasized digital well-being, offering features to help users manage their screen time.
First devices to receive the update:
Google’s Pixel devices were among the first to receive the Android Pie update, showcasing the platform’s new features and AI-driven enhancements.
Features:
Android 9 Pie introduced several notable features:
- Gesture Navigation: Pie introduced a new system navigation based on gestures, offering a more immersive experience.
- Adaptive Battery: Using machine learning, Pie optimized battery usage based on individual app usage patterns.
- App Actions: The platform predicted user actions and offered quick shortcuts for common tasks.
- Slices: This feature provided a deeper look into apps directly from search results.
- Digital Wellbeing: Tools like Dashboard, Wind Down, and Do Not Disturb aimed to help users manage their screen time and ensure a balanced digital life.
- Adaptive Brightness: The system adjusted screen brightness based on user habits and ambient light conditions.
User Experience:
Pie aimed to provide a more adaptive and personalized user experience. Features like Adaptive Battery and Adaptive Brightness showcased Android’s commitment to using AI for user benefit. Gesture navigation offered a fresh way to interact with devices, while the Digital Wellbeing tools resonated with users seeking a balanced digital lifestyle.
Platform:
Building on the Linux kernel, Pie continued Android’s open-source legacy. The platform was designed to be more adaptive, leveraging machine learning to optimize performance and user experience.
Security:
Pie introduced several security enhancements. The platform offered improved encryption, biometric authentication enhancements, and more robust protection against hardware-based attacks. Secure app data backups and protected confirmation were also notable security features.
Reception:
Android 9 Pie was positively received by users and tech enthusiasts. The AI-driven features, particularly Adaptive Battery, were praised for their practical benefits. Gesture navigation received mixed reviews, with some appreciating the modern approach, while others took time to adapt.