Google Android M’s official name has been revealed today and it is Android 6.0 Marshmallow. Android 6.0 Marshmallow is the next major version of Android. Google did not introduce major design changes with Marshmallow, Because last year a major overhaul of Material Design was made to Android OS with Lollipop and most of the developers did not even adopt the new design yet. Although Google introduced a number of new, useful features in Android 6.0 Marshmallow.
Simplified App Permissions:
One of the most significant features introduced in Android 6.0 Marshmallow is simplified App permissions. Apps will now ask you for permission when you first try to use the feature in the app that requires that permission, instead of asking during app installation time. The permissions now directly reflect the use-case. For example when you try to send a voice message in WhatsApp, It will ask you to access the Microphone and you can allow or deny it. This is a one-time query of course.
To take more control of the app permissions, you can go to settings and select any app like WhatsApp and allow or deny any permission you want from the list. You can also choose the permission like microphone and see that which apps are using it.
Chrome Custom Tabs:
Chrome Custom Tabs is another feature introduced in Android 6.0 Marshmallow. For example you are using the Pinterest and tap on a web link within the app. You will notice a beautiful transition which will take you to Chrome Custom Tabs. Chrome browser will run on the top of your app with same design which will fell like one experience.
Android Pay:
With Android Pay, users can simply and safely use their Android phones to pay in stores wherever the see the Android Pay logo or NFC logo. Android Pay is focused on simplicity, security and choice. All you have to do is unlock your phone and place it in front of NFC to pay. There is no need to open any app. You can use existing debit and credit cards with Android Pay. Android Pay will work with any Android device with NFC. Android Pay will work in over 700,000 stores across the United States.
Fingerprint Support:
Android 6.0 Marshmallow exposes a standard API for developers for fingerprint support. It supports a number of sensors. You can use your fingerprint to authorize Android Pay transactions. Simply touch the fingerprint sensor to unlock the phone, The payment will be done instantly and you will get a transaction notification at the top. With fingerprint sensor, you can unlock your device, make PlayStore purchases and open authentication APIs. App developers can also add fingerprint support in their apps so no more usernames and passwords required.
Power & Charging:
Android 6.0 Marshmallow focuses on battery life optimization. It introduces a new feature called Doze. The device will detect with motion detector if it is left unattended for a long period of time and it will go into deeper sleep state to save the significant amount of battery. With this feature, devices will last up to 2x longer in standby compared to Lollipop. Android 6.0 Marshmallow introduces USB Type-C connector which is usable in both sides and will charge the phones significantly faster. Your phone can now even act as a charger with USB type C connectivity.
Availability:
Android M Developer Preview is available for Nexus 5,6,8 and Nexus Player. Android 6.0 Marshmallow will be officially released in Q4 2015.