Google has released its first developer preview of the upcoming Android version, Android N, which they recently admitted to be Nougat, not Nutella after all. Google used to release such preview for the last two versions (Android L and M) at Google I/O. With this version, it's a bit different. Google has released its preview earlier to give developers (and end-users) a chance to experience the new amazing features with their apps. In this article we talk about the most outstanding features of this preview.

On March 9, 2016 Google has released the Android N developer preview. The new preview is compatible with recent Nexus devices which are Nexus 6, Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Nexus 9, Pixel C and Nexus Player Android TV box. You can download the preview and install it on your device using this link.

One of the most important features that Google has been working on for years is the multi-window feature. Using this feature, you can run two apps side by side in the simultaneously.  

The New Split-Screen Feature In Android N

The new split-screen feature in Android N

Another feature is the ability to reply directly to message notifications without leaving the message shade. This feature was only supported in Android Wear but now it's available for both phones and tablets as well.

In Android M, Doze was one of the new features that allows better battery life. Doze was improved in Android N preview to achieve better battery savings. The previous version of Doze saves power when the device is stationary. Now, the new version will save power whenever your screen is off.

Also, the settings menu is more verbose and provides additional information about menu items. The notification area is more customizable and you can add/remove/rearrange items from it easily. There is also a new way of showing the quick settings such as the Wi-Fi and Mobile data at the top of the notifications shade.

The Quick Settings Bar At The Top And The Ability To Reply Directly To Messages

The quick settings bar at the top and the ability to reply directly to messages

The new Android N developer preview would make developers work early to adopt the new features (such as multi-tasking split screen) in their apps before the official release is out. That would of course enrich the whole user experience and may be a breakthrough in the history of Android releases. However, we expect to see a new update every 4 to 6 weeks till the final Android N public release in Q3 2016. We're expecting more and more amazing features which would change the way we deal with our apps.