Pictures of the new Android 4.4 KitKat UI have leaked online, revealing a first look at the redesigned native Google apps.
Officially announced by Google in early September, Android 4.4 KitKat will seemingly be a larger update to Google’s mobile OS than Android 4.3 Jelly Bean.
The leaked UI photos show a new lighter colour scheme that replaces the usual black status bar with a grey alternative, with the icons also displayed in a lighter shade.
However, the status bar seems to change colour depending on the app that is currently running, similar to the functionality of the iOS 7 app dock that changes according to the user’s background.
There aren’t any totally new features shown off in the screenshots, but Google is obviously looking to streamline its native apps in the chocolate-themed OS.
Within the phone app, the dialler buttons have a new blue colour scheme and circular design, which is very reminiscent of the iOS 7 dialler and unlock screens.
The messaging app has also undergone an Android 4.4 KitKat facelift that introduces a cutesy bell with a smiling face when the user doesn’t have any messages. The messaging controls have also been relocated to the top right-hand corner of the app, rather than along the button as with previous iterations of the Android OS.
Other new features tipped for Android 4.4 KitKat include new notification widgets, fragmentation changes, new gallery visualisations, Miracast updates and new animation APIs.
If there’s any truth to the rumours, Android 4.4 KitKat will be officially launched on October 14 alongside Google’s next flagship smartphone, the Nexus 5.
The Nexus 5 is tipped to pack a Full HD screen, 2.2GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor with 2GB of RAM and a 2,300mAh battery.
Design-wise, expect the Nexus 5 to have strong links to the LG G2, especially in terms of its ultra-slim bezel, rather than the rear buttons.
Next, read our iOS 7 tips and tricks.
Via: 9to5Google
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Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
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We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
