Android 5.0 Lollipop: What You Need To Know

Android 5.0 Lollipop is the latest version of Android, the mobile operating system developed and created by Google. The tech giant had officially announced this newest Android version earlier in October, and has since stated that the smartphone OS will be available to all consumers by November 3rd. If you have not been following the latest developments regarding Android 5.0 Lollipop, here is something that might help you catch up.

Material Design

Android 5.0 Lollipop has a revamped user interface, now called Material Design. It makes full use of animations and a more organized and layered (think three-dimensional) look, which should improve the overall user experience of Android-run devices. This new interface design seamlessly runs on all Android devices -- be it smartphone, tablet, laptop, and even TV. 

Smart Lock

Then there is Android Smart Lock. This feature allows Android users to easily unlock their smartphones without having to repeatedly enter a PIN or complete a distinct swipe pattern with your finger. What it does is secure your device by pairing it with a trusted device (your Android wearable device), object (your car), or visual pattern (your face).

Enhanced Security

Apart from Android Smart Lock, the latest version of the Android OS also offers other enhanced security features. For instance, it comes with a built-in encryption that activates by default when your device gets lost or worse (stolen). Then there is guest user mode, which lets others use your device without accessing your private files.

Factory Reset Protection

Let us say your phone got lost, and you do not want anybody ever from making use of your device. Well, Google has designed a Factory Reset Protection feature that requires a password before your device can be reset, preventing thieves and unwanted users from taking advantage of your lost/stolen smartphone.

Improved Notifications

With the new Android 5.0 Lollipop notifications, you can now read and reply to your messages directly from your lock screen. You can also hide alerts for sensitive data by activating Priority mode through the use of your device's volume button. 

Processing Boost

The new Android is primed for 64-bit support, which would give your device better processing performance and speed. 

Which Devices Are Getting The Lollipop Update?

For starters, Android 5.0 Lollipop is expected to debut on the three Nexus devices (the Nexus 6 smartphone, the Nexus 9 tablet, and the Nexus Player media streaming device) scheduled for launch on November 3rd. HTC has stated that it will receive the update within 90 days. As for Motorola, it has revealed that the Moto X, Moto G, Moto G LTE, Moto E, Droid Ultra, Droid Maxx and Droid Mini will be updated soon (no date released yet). Samsung has hinted that its Galaxy Note 4 (and the S4, S5, and the Note 3, as well) will be getting the Lollipop update either later this year or early next year. With regards to LG, reports suggest that the LG G3 and G2 will be updated before year's end.