Google released the latest update to the android operating system, naming it the Android 5.0 Lollipop. Though this latest OS was released in early October this year, it was initially available for only Nexus series phones. That is not surprising as Nexus is of course Google’s baby and is bound to get preferential treatment from Google. However, other companies like HTC, Sony and Motorola have also confirmed that Android 5.0 will be made available on their devices as well, as early as December of this year.
Strangely, Samsung, which is a leader in mobile phone manufacturing failed to make any comment as to the availability of Android 5.0 for its devices. But users did get a glimpse into what Samsung is planning through a massive leak which all but confirmed that Samsung was indeed working on making available the update to its users as soon as possible. A video leaked online a few days back showed the Samsung Galaxy S5 running on the latest Android Lollipop although it lacked the TouchWiz UI. The video highlights the differences between the Kitkat or the 4.4.4 version of android and the latest Lollipop version. Some major changes have been made to the Settings, Lock screen and dialer and performance has been substantially enhanced.
In fact, on a close analysis, one can easily discern numerous updated features in the new android version. The most obvious update is that android’s green elements have been replaced by Samsung’s signature blue elements. The Lollipop version also gives more space for power off dialogue along with introducing changes in the user interface by creating new icons and wallpaper options. A new search box has also been added for contacts while the original ‘Google search’ has been replaced by Samsung search. One can also see new animations along with a new font system which is slightly smaller in size than the old one. Not only has the design for Clock, Calculator and Music apps been changed but new filters have been added to the media library allowing users to classify folders into pets, scenery, food etc. Besides, now there is a ‘no interruptions’ feature in the sound settings which seems quite promising for music lovers.
Although this video leak has created a lot of stir among owners of Samsung handsets and especially the users of Galaxy S5 but it still remains an unofficial leak and no official statement has been given by Samsung. There is also a catch to this whole anticipation. Some users figured out the leak showed the name of the Android version as Android 5.0 with no mention of the word ‘Lollipop’. Since the name ‘Lollipop’ was given to 5.0 a few days after its release, many users fear that the video might be stale copy and it would not be prudent to assume that the features illustrated in the video would actually be present in the Galaxy S5 if and when it is updated. In the meanwhile, Samsung has promised to bring the update to its users within 90 days of its release, that is to say, by December. All one can do is wait and watch what new magic is created by the Lollipop.