The latest version of the Android OS is now available

The catch is, you've got to own a Google Pixel phone to use it at this point. The rest of Google's massive user base will get to see Android Q later this year. In an unusual move, the company limited access to their latest work in progress to Pixel owners, including those still using the Pixel 1 (which is technically no longer supported by the company).

The latest version of the OS introduces a variety of advancements.

Here are a few you'll be impressed with:

  • Better split-screen support - Note that this also specifically improves enhanced support for foldable screens, which appear to figure heavily in Google's long-term plans. That's good news for some phone manufacturers.  If you own a Galaxy Fold, for example, when Q is released for your device, the change will have a big impact.
  • Improved Privacy and Permission Features - Any time you see a popup driven by an app seeking permission to access a portion of your data (location data, for example), you'll see three options:
    • Allow All The Time
    • Allow Only While The App Is In Use
    • Deny
  • Improved Security - On the privacy front, Android Q does not allow apps to launch any activity while in the background, which means that malicious apps can't do anything nefarious without user input.
  • Big Improvements To The Share Menu - One of the most persistent user complaints about previous versions of Android has been the OS's sub-par share menu. It's getting a major overhaul that makes it more intuitive and includes an option for developers to publish "Sharing Shortcuts" which should make the menu even more useful.

Our perspective

Do you own a Pixel?  If so, check out the new features and start playing around with them today!

The author

Thanks for reading this short post. For more tips on thriving with small business technology, check out the other blog posts at DWPia Blogs. I am also available at dwpia on LinkedIn, at dwpia on Facebook, and @dwpia on Twitter.

Cybersecurity Expert, Small Business Technology Consultant, Managed Services Provider, Managed IT Support

Denis S Wilson

I am President and Principal Consultant for DWP Information Architects: specializing in managed IT support for smaller healthcare practices, clinics, insurance companies, and nonprofit companies in Ventura County and San Fernando Valley. And have created cost-effective IT solutions, for over 20 years, specializing in cybersecurity and regulatory compliance.

I am also a published author and speaker, working extensively with organizations that include: the State of California, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Small Business Administration (SBA), SCORE, Women's Business Centers, and Small Business Development Centers. As well as providing small business technology education programs through business and professional associations.

Contact me if you would like me to speak at your meeting.

Meanwhile, check out this report

Executive Report: 10 Hidden IT Risks That Might Threaten Your Business