Which is better Android Lollipop or Kit Kat. Which version of Android is the best: comparing from the first to the newest What's new

On June 19, Google made an unexpected surprise in the form Android updates 4.4.4 KitKat for Nexus 5, Nexus 7, and Nexus 4. The Android 4.4.4 update replaces the recent Android 4.4.3 KitKat update. latest version software already deployed on Nexus series devices. Today we want to look at everything that is known about latest update KitKat.

Earlier this month, after weeks of rumors and speculation, the latest version of the Android 4.4 KitKat operating system. Android 4.4.3 represents Google's response to recent complaints from Nexus users regarding 4.4.2 bugs, and thankfully Android 4.4.3 fixes them.

Android 4.4.3 KitKat is a patch update aimed at fixing issues previous versions the KitKat operating system, introduced back in November last year. The update also brings a new dialer design and some cosmetic changes to the app that Nexus owners use to contact their loved ones.

The release of Android 4.4.3 KitKat solved most of the problems, and given the start from day to day, no one expected the developer to release another version of Android 4.4. It is for this reason that yesterday's release of Android 4.4.4 KitKat from Google was so unexpected for owners of Nexuses and other Android devices.

On Thursday evening, Google rolled out Android 4.4.4 KitKat for the Nexus 7, Nexus 10, Nexus 5 and Nexus 4, which did not have time to master the previous operating update Google systems. And while the new operating system remains fresh since its release, we want to take a close look at the update that replaces 4.4.3.

This article will tell you everything you need to know about Google and its latest Android 4.4.4 KitKat update.

Output Android 4.4.4KitKat

4.4.4 KitKat is an update that, in this moment, is limited only to users of Nexus smartphones and tablets running under Android control 4.4. Names include Nexus 4, Nexus 5, Nexus 10, and .

And given that the update rollout began on the 19th, new Android not yet available to everyone. OTA updates are slow, typically taking about a week to get the update to everyone. So Nexus owners will need to be patient while the company works on the update. When an update becomes available, the system will prompt users to download and install it. Nexus users are recommended to check the update manually through the settings, but checking more than 2-3 times a day is, of course, unnecessary.

If you are familiar with the third-party download and installation method, you can install the update before the OTA arrives. Unfortunately, not all links have been found yet.

At the moment, only Nexus 4, Nexus 5 and Nexus 10 can be updated to Android 4.4.4 KitKat from the outside. If you want to install the update manually, the update is available for users of these devices. If you're not familiar with manual uploading, check out our guide. Just replace Nexus 7 with required device and replace Android 4.4.3 with the correct Android 4.4.4 file.

We will eventually find update files for Nexus 7 as well, so users should stay tuned for our content. It is only worth noting that the Nexus 7 LTE is not yet updated and Google does not say anything about this. Impatience among users may be growing, but it looks like we'll just have to wait.

While Nexuses are the only devices receiving the new update right now, the new KitKat is planned for other smartphones as well. Motorola, for example, is planning updates to the Droid MAXX, Droid Ultra and Droid Mini. The company plans to roll out updates within a month.

Given that this is a security patch, there is a high chance that we will see 4.4.4 KitKat on other devices, although 4.4.3 continues to roll out and it is too early to write off the update.

Featuresoid 4.4.4KitKat

Android 4.4.3 KitKat is a fix update for Nexus users, and it brings very little to devices like the Moto X. And the new version 4.4.4 update is nowhere near the size of 4.4.3.

The update is small, only 2.5MB for Nexus users, as it only contains a few security fixes. If you need details, look for the 4.4.4 update log in foreign sources.

Remember, not all Android updates are created equal. And if the 4.4.4 KitKat update is small for Nexus users, that doesn't mean it will remain small for Motorola Droid or Galaxy S5. Manufacturers include their own packages in updates, as they did with 4.4.3, so you can expect fixes and improvements that go beyond OpenSSL fixes.

Update problemsAndroid 4.4.4

Android 4.4.3 and 4.4.4 KitKat were aimed at fixing bugs within Android 4.4. However, we have already pointed out that update 4.4.3 came with its own problems. It's no surprise that we see 4.4.4 only a few days later.

The complaints aren't as loud as those that accompanied Android 4.4.3, but 4.4.4 wasn't without its problems, according to Nexus users on the Google forums.

It seems that the cycle of problems continues its journey into the new update, for example, they continue GPS problems on a Nexus 5 with Android 4.4.4 KitKat on board, although some say the problem went away with the update. For now this is all we see. More information will be added as more users upgrade to Android 4.4.4 KitKat.

After the update of the Android operating system to version 5.1 with the sweet name Lollipop was released, many users were interested in the question, what has changed? Today we will compare two 4.4 and 5.1 for you and help you finally see which Android version better Lollipop or Kit Kat, and look at the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Main differences

Many people say that nothing has changed in the new version of Android Lollipop. Others say Kitkat has been changed beyond recognition. In general, the developers worked on many areas, which we will now consider.

“We have developed a new design philosophy” - that’s right Google developers commented on the new version. They've updated every corner of the system, from the volume to the Wi-Fi icon. In the new version of Android, they added colors, made the design bright and contrasting, which was not the case in KitKat.

Google Inc has significantly redesigned the main functions of the system. They have improved the “multitasking screen” function (several open applications on one screen) and expanded the notification settings. The developers have also introduced new features. They created a “smart lock” (the device is blocked once if it is in a “safe place”, the device saw your face or there is a trusted gadget nearby), it became possible to work with the “curtain” application.

The developers said that the new version of the operating system will increase performance and the device will hold more charge. A comparison of OS 4.4 and 5.1 showed that this is a myth. Although Google has made a complete transition to the ART runtime (Android RunTime) and made support for 64-bit processors, various tests have not shown anything new.

Changes have also been made to graphics. The new version of Android brought us a new graphics API (Application Programming Interface), which made games more vibrant, high-quality and exciting. Android Lolipop is great for gaming.

In the new version of OS 5.1, the audio output has been improved (now it can also be used in a USB connector, which makes it possible to obtain digital quality), Bluetooth (a new protocol 4.1 has been created, now it has excellent network reception). The developers have increased the speed, quality and reliability of the connection.

Pros and cons of Android 4.4

Back in 2013, Google released a new version of the operating system called KitKat. The developers planned to get rid of various bugs and comments, which were abundant from users, and make the new version more comfortable for people. Although the Android 4.4 OS has become very popular, the developers have not succeeded in everything.

Advantages of Android OS KitKat

RAM

Google was going to make the OS available for any gadget. KitKat introduced the Process Stats function, which made it possible to use the new OS on the cheapest devices without slowing down, while more expensive models received their advantages from this, which manifested themselves in multitasking.

Interface

Developers who create new applications for the Android OS can now work more with application design. We also added different full-screen mode options. All this led to the fact that appearance applications have become better and more beautiful.

Unified signatures

With the KitKat OS, it became possible to choose the font size that is on the screen, the background color, and the language of the captions.

KitKat has introduced support for several sensors that can respond to steps (the first sensor recognizes, and the second counts steps).

Infrared sensor

Many people would like to use some kind of remote control to control their home appliances. With the help of the new Android operating system, this has become possible.

Flaws

Recording prohibition

Since the Android KitKat version, the developers have prohibited writing applications to external drives; this was done to protect the system. But at the same time, the functionality of applications that may be located on an external memory card was disrupted.

In KitKat OS, it was impossible to automatically erase SMS messages that requested applications to control the balance of the device.

operating room Android system KitKat is perfect for users who have budget devices. Updating the system to this version will bring a lot of new things that will make working with the device more comfortable.

Pros and cons of Android 5.1

In 2015, Google made a statement that they would soon release a new, updated Android Lollipop OS. The long-awaited update came out only a few months later. Android 5.1 became a new generation operating system, but it did not achieve great popularity right away. This is a new generation operating system in which almost everything has changed - from appearance to performance.

Advantages of Android OS Lollipop

Interface

Google took care of the users; in the new version of the system they began to use rich and bright colors, due to which the eyes do not strain and are not irritated. The interface became more responsive to requests, and the standard buttons were changed into geometric shapes.

Device Security

The developers created new feature Smart Lock, which allows you to access the device when connecting it to “trusted” devices, but they must support the Bluetooth protocol.

Memory card

In Lollipop, you can assign each application a separate folder, only there it will write, read and use various data. Thanks to this new technology, we will be able to save internal memory. For this to work, every developer must optimize their application for this technology.

Internet and media

Google has improved the “video stream processor”. Smooth transitions, high-quality and clear pictures immediately catch your eye. There are also new options for setting up the camera, through which you can take high-quality photographs.

New Open GL 3.1 technology ( software for creating applications that use two or three-dimensional computer graphics) allows you to run the highest quality games. Using this technology, you can run applications that have graphics similar to some consoles.

Google Assistant

Now, in order to “talk” to your gadget, you don’t need to unlock it; the device can be locked and in your pocket

Flaws

Performance and battery life

Google cannot cope with the main problem - the gluttony of devices. Now their new operating system requires about 2 GB random access memory. The developers also promised to increase the battery life, but after various tests, it turned out that they did not change anything.

Interface

In the new version of the operating system, the developers focused on minimalism. All standard icons were replaced with simple geometric shapes, and the “Gallery” was renamed “Photo”.

Incompatibility

Lolipop will simply not support some useful and important applications. To fix this, it is necessary that all application developers make support for the new operating system. Even though it came out a long time ago, many developers are in no hurry to do this.

Android Lollipop is not recommended for use on budget models, as it will heavily load the smartphone, which will lead to slowdowns. Users of expensive models are recommended to upgrade to a new version of the OS; if you like minimalism and ripples in your eyes, then do it.

Conclusion

We looked at Android KitKat and Lollipop, and helped you understand the main features and nuances of these OS versions. But which version is better to use, 4.4 or 5.1, is up to you to decide. Nowadays the main versions of Android used are 4.2, 4.3, 4.4 5.0, 5.1, in some cases even versions 6.0 and 7.0.

Not all owners of budget devices will be able to upgrade to the new version 5.1, so you will have to stay on the old version of the OS, as it will provide more stable operation. Expensive devices can be updated to Lillipop and enjoy new features.

Android 4.4.2 is an operating system developed for mobile devices by Google. This version called KitKat, and it is perhaps the best version of the firmware if we consider all releases of Android 4. operating system has become very widespread and is now used on many devices, delighting its users. If you wanted to download firmware for Android to update your phone or tablet more new version, then this page is for you!

The new update has significantly reduced system requirements OS, thereby increasing the number of smartphones that can now fully support it. Therefore, today almost every user has access to Android 4.4.2 firmware for free download in Russian, which can be downloaded at Cyclone-Soft! If you've been unable to update your phone for a long time or don't know how to flash your tablet, then the installer package available for download via torrent will be of great help to you. In other words, today almost any device supports Android 4.4.2, so you have an excellent opportunity to quickly update the operating system.

Among other things, the OS has been highly optimized, which can only mean that devices using it get a nice boost in power and performance. Of course, hardware plays a major role here, but often perfectly debugged software performs an equally important task.

Features and innovations of Android 4.4.2 KitKat

Interface options and new features

There is no doubt that the most visible changes in this operating system are user interface. It has become even more comfortable and informative, allowing you to conveniently and easily manage desktops and divide installed applications into types and categories. This great option how to flash Android, because version 4.4.2 was considered much more successful than previous releases.

Choose the color palette you like, use the convenient notification panel and translucent buttons below, which perfectly updated the appearance of the operating system. Android firmware 4.4.2 can be downloaded for free in Russian, which can be found at the end of the page, and also received updated controls for many elements of the system. For example, the user can hide system elements, unnecessary on-screen buttons, and the notification panel itself.

Sensor support

The new version of Android has interesting updates in terms of processing specialized sensors. The fact is that now KitKat can receive all the information from them in batches and group the data at certain intervals. This solution helped not only to reduce the load on the device’s processor, but also to reduce power consumption, which depends on its operation. New program for firmware it has many new functions that allow you to use detection sensors, pedometer and many others in your smartphone.

The user will also have access to built-in support for infrared ports and a module for working with several Bluetooth profiles at once. KitKat 4.4.2 will help you print absolutely any documents wirelessly.

Updated photo editor

Android 4.4 received brand new graphics editor, which you can activate while in the gallery. The utility will do an excellent job of adding filters and frames, cropping photos and many other tasks. One could even argue that the functionality is in no way inferior Instagram application, in which you can process your pictures. Crop frames, straighten the image, rotate it at the desired angle and create a mirror copy - all this is available to you!

How to update Android to version 4.4 KitKat

Downloading, installing and further updating the operating system will not cause you any difficulties, regardless of whether you decide to flash a smartphone or tablet. Download Android 4.4.2 KitKat and follow the instructions from the downloaded archive, which will answer all your questions about how to flash your Android phone or update your tablet OS.

Be sure to share the page with friends who do not yet have Android 4.4.2 KitKat, so that they can also update to this excellent version by flashing the firmware of their device. Write comments and don't forget to rate the software! Thank you for your attention!

The question regarding which Android is better worries every user who goes to the store to buy a new gadget running this operating system.

The OS, whose logo is a green robot, today occupies one of the leading positions on the market, is installed on hundreds of devices, and is constantly improved and updated by developers. And Android receives updates with enviable regularity.

In the first half of 2017, Google announced Android O (8), while its predecessor, Nougat, only managed to cross the 10% mark, and Marshmallow remains the most popular. So is it worth chasing the numbers in the name of the operating system or sticking with the old and proven version? Let's figure it out together.

Android OS: advantages and disadvantages

You've probably noticed that the gadget market today is divided by two operating systems: iOS and Android. The first is the brainchild of Apple, which has a closed source, but is used only on products of this company. Second - Android development, Inc., which was acquired by Google. Main feature is openness and freeness, which has made it so popular for manufacturers of smartphones, tablets and other devices.

Little-known company Android, Inc. was purchased by the search giant back in 2005. Google planned to create a free operating system with open source, which is what it did in the fall of 2007, presenting the first version of the package for developers. Officially, the first version of the system was shown on September 23, 2008, along with the first Android smartphone – HTC Dream. The OS, despite the skepticism of many experts, managed to attract the attention of both ordinary users and equipment manufacturers.

The rapid growth of the mobile operating system began, which was accompanied by the emergence of new versions with various improvements. Android OS in a very short time managed to oust a number of other platforms from the market, sharing a place on Olympus with its main competitor, iOS.

Why is this system so popular?

Firstly, users liked the functionality and openness. Android opened up a lot of possibilities, allowed us to delve into file system, install a bunch of applications from different sources, we even change the appearance of the OS. The operating system, if you put in just a little effort, can change beyond recognition, which is difficult to do on many other mobile operating systems.

We must not forget about custom firmware, being developed ordinary users, which are completely capable of turning a “green robot” into something completely different. In addition, the official Android store is simply overwhelmed with thousands of applications and games, many of which are absolutely free (paid ones, by the way, are much cheaper than in the same App Store).

Whatever one may say, Android also has disadvantages.

1. One of the most annoying and hated disadvantages among users is system freezes and lags (although this problem disappears with the release of new improved versions of the OS, and serious errors occur only on very cheap devices).
2. Another weak point of even the best versions of Android is considered to be frequent infections with viruses that can get onto the device even from the official application store.
3. Finally, the disadvantages include the slow updating of devices to more current and better versions. It may take a year before the smartphone receives the latest version. In addition, the overwhelming number of budget/mid-range devices remain without updating to the latest version.

Which version of Android is better: outdated, current and new

Having familiarized ourselves a little with the history, advantages and disadvantages of Android, we move directly to the existing versions of this operating system. To make it easier for you to understand, we will divide the material into several blocks according to the state of Android versions: outdated, current and new. Here we will talk in detail about the features of each version, their advantages, disadvantages, as well as the relevance of use in 2017. Well, in the end, we’ll decide which version of Android is more convenient and better today.

We are telling you about outdated versions of Android for informational purposes. For most users they are no longer able to provide the necessary functionality, and therefore are of interest only to geeks.

Outdated versions of Android

Android is a relatively new operating system, but it can boast of an abundance of versions. Like other well-known systems, it was constantly being improved, new editions were released, and the old ones were gradually forgotten. The same thing happened, for example, with Windows - not many people will remember Windows 95, and XP is gradually being forgotten. Android also has such dinosaur versions, although finding them on devices is not easy. Moreover, they have nothing to surprise today’s user.

Android 1.0 "Apple Pie"

So, the system begins its journey with version 1.0, which was named after apple pie. This is the first stable build, introduced in the fall of 2003. It looks a little different than the latest best versions of Android, but the similarities are undoubtedly visible. Naturally, Android 1.0 was filled with bugs, and many of the usual smartphone functions were not provided at all.

What made version 1.0 stand out:

• a notification system familiar to Android with a drop-down top curtain;
• desktop widgets;
• integration with Gmail services;
• online application store.

Of course, for everyday using Android 1.0 “Apple Pie” is unlikely to be suitable: the absence of many “tricks”, the impossibility of installing many programs, and a device running “Apple Pie” is quite difficult to find.

Android 1.1 "Banana Bread"

At the beginning of February 2009, Android received a major update that made a number of functions available, although outwardly the system did not change at all. Version 1.1 was available for a single smartphone - T-Mobile G1 (HTC Dream).

Key innovations include:

• voice Google search Voice Search;
• the ability to sell paid applications in the store Play Market;
• the function of updating the firmware “over the air” (at the same time the “About phone” item appeared in the settings).

Android 1.1 “Banana Bread” is nothing more than history today, and the HTC Dream, the device that supports it, is a rarity.

Android 1.5 "Cupcake"

“Keks” (the name of the version translated into Russian), released in the spring of 2009, brought a lot of small improvements that partially improved the system by adding new features. Thus, on-screen keyboards appeared, which allowed users not to provide the usual mechanical keys. The first smartphone to try Android 1.5 was again the brainchild of HTC – Magic.

In addition to the on-screen keyboard, the following appeared:

• new icons;
• ability to install third-party keyboards;
• animations when moving from window to window;
• browser changes;
• the ability to publish photos or videos online;
• support for MPEG-4 and 3GP and new Bluetooth profiles.

Like its predecessor, Android 1.5 “Cupcake” is forgotten today, which is understandable.

Android 1.6 "Donut"

Also in 2009, in the fall, Android received a new update, in which special attention was paid to the application store. Its interface was redesigned, errors were eliminated, and application screenshots appeared. Also major innovations were support for CDMA networks and display resolutions over 480x320 pixels, which attracted the attention of new manufacturers to the system.

In addition, Android 1.6 "Donut" boasted:

• improved camera interface and new capabilities for working with photos and videos;
• multilingual voice search;
• significant expansion of search capabilities;
• applications began to work faster;
• the ability to find out which programs are draining your battery.

Android 2.0/2.1 "Eclair"

Not stopping there, already in November 2009 the developers rolled out a new Android 2.0, which can be called breakthrough. It was this version that began to be massively introduced into smartphones of that time and widely distributed throughout the world. In the debate about which version of Android is the most convenient and best, at that time 2.0 definitely won. Smartphones running Android 2.0 really surprised us back then with their capabilities and fairly powerful hardware.

What's new:

• ability to work with multiple Google accounts;
• The camera interface has been updated, effects and flash support have been added;
• the keyboard has become more comfortable;
• updated calendar and graphic architecture;
• support for new display sizes and resolutions;
• improved user interface;
• a lot of other minor improvements.

In the new 2010, update 2.1 was introduced, the main innovations of which were “live” wallpapers and improvements Google Maps. Based on this version of Android, the famous Nexus One is released, a smartphone that was a desirable acquisition for any geek of those years.

Android 2.2 "Froyo"

In May 2010, the frozen yogurt update was released and first appeared on the Nexus One smartphone. In Android 2.2, attention was paid to optimizing the interface, memory, etc. Now applications start to launch noticeably faster, and the Play Market also has Adobe Flash, which allowed you to run videos and even some Flash games in a standard browser.

The list of innovations in Android 2.2 “Froyo” is quite wide:

• Possibility of Wi-Fi distribution;
• installing applications in extended memory;
• support for ultra-high resolution screens;
• the browser received integration of the V8 JavaScript engine;
• a bunch of small updates.

Google subsequently released several security updates to Android 2.2 “Froyo”, after which it introduced a new version of the OS.

Android 2.3 "Gingerbread"

One of the most famous, innovative and best versions of Android, which is still found on many devices. It was presented in December 2010, and received many subsequent updates that added something new to the system. There really were a lot of changes, which allowed Android 2.3 “Gingerbread” to receive a lot of positive ratings. Firstly, the system has changed slightly in appearance - it has become darker and more elegant. Secondly, there is support for even clearer displays, as well as audio and video codecs. In addition, the new version received:

• support for more sensors (barometers, gyroscopes);
• redesigned keyboard;
• the ability to clear memory of garbage;
• more energy efficient use of battery.

Android 2.3 is rightfully considered one of the best and most convenient versions of the OS (for 2010-2011 - the best). Even today it is not difficult to find a device that will work under the control of “gingerbread”, but its purchase does not seem entirely advisable.

Android 3.0/3.1/3.2 "Honeycomb"

Already in February 2011, Google introduced another version of Android, although it was developed exclusively for tablets. The update contained many innovations that made using tablets more comfortable. For example, the user mode has been optimized, support for multi-core processors has appeared, and multitasking has been improved.

The list of innovations with subsequent additions looks impressive:

• support for hardware acceleration appeared;
• support for peripheral devices;
• optimized work on different devices;
• improving stability and security;
• Auto-updates appeared in Android Market;
• Improved support for Adobe Flash.

Android “Honeycomb” was full of various innovations, but Google decided to continue to present universal OS that will work on both tablets and smartphones.

Android 4.0 "Ice Cream Sandwich"

“Waffle Ice Cream” was announced in May 2011, and in the fall the version was already officially presented. Android 4.0 was the first version of Google's OS that supported work with tablets and smartphones. It brought a lot of useful improvements and was very popular with users, although at the start it had a lot of bugs and operational problems.

The list of innovations is quite long:

• The notification panel has changed;
• improved multitasking;
• The lock screen has been changed, shortcuts have appeared for quick access to phone functions;
• typing has become more comfortable, spell checking has become more stable;
• The camera now has more capabilities;
• Screenshots can be taken programmatically;
• subsequent bug fixes and security updates.

Android 4.0 turned out to be innovative and quite convenient. Today the OS version is seriously outdated, although about 1% of devices still run 4.0.

Android 4.1/4.2/4.3 "Jelly Bean"

At the end of June 2012, an updated version of Android was presented, which remained virtually unchanged in terms of interface design, but received a lot of improvements at the hardware level. Improvements ensure a smoother interface, quick start games and applications, as well as a minimum of bugs. The best version of Android at that time received:

• new keyboard with gesture support;
• support for multiple profiles on one device;
• Miracast technology, which allows you to transfer videos and photos to your TV wirelessly;
• menu quick settings in the notification panel;
• camera interface update.

In the fall, a convenient version of Android 4.2 was presented with minor improvements, and in the summer of 2013, version 4.3 was released to the public, which brought new updates and fixes to the operating system.

Today, Jelly Candy still has a decent amount of market share and can still be used, but more and more app developers are dropping support for it.

Android 4.4 "KitKat"

The KitKat version, despite being introduced back in 2013, is still very common. Currently, the share of Android 4.4 is slightly more than 18% (the latest Nougat, for a moment, has a share of no more than 10%). Until recently, KitKat was installed on the vast majority of budget devices and has repeatedly received the title better version Android. The secret of success on cheap devices lay in excellent optimization, which is why today many users prefer KitKat.

What did the version bring:

• voice Google Assistant Now;
• optimized memory allocation;
• faster application launch;
• support for wireless printers;
• “remote control” appeared;
• switching launchers in device settings;
• The security system has been improved and minor bugs have been fixed.

Be that as it may, the share of Android 4.4 “KitKat” is declining quite quickly, and gadget manufacturers are giving preference to newer versions of the OS. Therefore, we will write down the beloved version as outdated and move on to the current ones.

Current versions of Android

Outdated versions of Android, despite the affection of many users, are seriously inferior to current ones, which boast a wider range of functions and regular updates. Besides current versions Android can be called the best due to the minimum number of problems and mass distribution in the market.

Android 5.0/5.1 "Lollipop"

One of the best and most popular versions of Android so far. Introduced in the fall of 2014, the OS from Google won the hearts of many users, and manufacturers of smartphones and other devices liked the new product. Lollipop stood out with its updated interface, which the developers called Material design - working with devices became easier, more pleasant and more comfortable. Attention was also paid to autonomy, thanks to which.

In addition, Android Lollipop brought:

• improved notification system;
• the ability to encrypt user data;
• redesigned automatic screen adjustment mode;
• setting up alerts;
• new animations;
• a lot of subsequent minor updates that made the system more stable and secure.

The Android Lollipop version can still be considered the best today, because in terms of prevalence it is second only to Marshmallow - 31% versus 22%. A huge number of smartphones running this OS version are still on sale and they definitely deserve attention.

Android 6.0 “Marshmallow” – the most stable Android today?

Android 6.0, introduced in May 2015, remains the most popular version of Google's OS to this day. And, apparently, he is not going to give up his position in the near future. Many budget devices, despite Nougat, receive Marshmallow, which is polished by the developers and is practically not inferior to the newer version. Externally, not everyone will be able to distinguish this version from its predecessor - the same Material design with similar icons has been preserved. However, the functionality has expanded with new interesting features.

• Now Android devices can be unlocked using a fingerprint scanner;
• natively supports 2 SIM cards;
• it became possible to control application access to personal data;
• multi-window mode has been introduced;
• added Android app Pay for electronic payments;
• Some new animations and updates for stable system operation.

Overall, Marshmallow is a modified Lollipop. Version Android 6.0 is really convenient, has all the functions that a modern user needs and is also the most common. Marshmallow will be relevant for at least another year.

New versions of Android

It is the newest versions of operating systems that attract the majority of users, which is not surprising. The updated OS, although slightly, is improved compared to its predecessors, boasts better developer support and regular updates.

Android 7.0 / 7.1 / 7.1.1 / 7.1.2 "Nougat"

This is the newest version of Android today. It was introduced in August 2016, but so far has not been able to conquer the market among Android devices. Visually, Nougat is noticeably different from its predecessors, and it is not without new functions.

The most noticeable changes in Android 7.0:

• it became possible to split the screen into two halves;
• That's it running applications deleted from memory using one button;
• The notification system has been improved, a quick response function has appeared;
• night mode, which allows you to achieve a level of contrast that is comfortable for the eyes;
• improved energy saving mode;
• redesigned folder design;
• new emoticons;
• picture-in-picture mode;
• Full hardware support for virtual reality has been added.

It seems that the capabilities are not the most important, but the system has noticeably improved. In the future there are three quite significant updates– 7.1, 7.1.1 and 7.1.2. The first update introduced the Daydream VR mode. A notable innovation in 7.1.1 was round application icons. Well, the latest update 7.1.2 brought improved encryption capabilities and corrections of minor errors.

According to many users, Android “Nougat” has become the best and most convenient version of Google’s mobile OS. Nougat looks stylish and modern, supports many useful functions and will be relevant for many years to come.

Android 8.0 "O..."

This fall, Google released a beta version of the future Android 8.0 for select smartphones, which will apparently be named after the Oreo liver. The official release of Android O, according to a number of sources, is scheduled for early autumn 2017. True, most users will be able to try out the coveted new product no earlier than the first quarter of 2018.

It’s too early to talk about all the innovations of the future version, but some details are already known:

• notifications will be improved;
• An event counter will appear on the application icons;
• dynamic icons will appear;
• minor interface updates.

Well, all that remains is to wait for autumn.

Is the new version of Android the best?

Not really. Getting acquainted with the new version of Android every year, which was supposed to be the best, experienced users decided that:

Updates bring not only improvements, but also bugs.

It often takes developers months to fix all the problems, and during this time, as a rule, the next version is announced. That is, the user receives a perfectly polished system closer to the presentation of the new version. Therefore, many people prefer to “sit” for an extra month on an older, but more convenient version of Android, rather than put up with the bugs of the new product.

However, you should not rush from one extreme to another and remain faithful to long-outdated versions. In addition to poor functionality, older operating systems are more susceptible to virus attacks and are unable to protect 100% user data from intruders.

Based on this, we can conclude that in the near future the most optimal choice Android Marshmallow and Nougat versions remain. By purchasing a device running Android 7.0, you'll get the most up-to-date features, and many devices running Marshmallow are likely to receive an update to the next version. If you like a smartphone running Android Lollipop, then it’s better to find out in advance whether it will receive an update to at least 6.0.

Conclusion: do not chase the latest version of Android

In today’s rather extensive material, we tried to tell you about the most important features of each version of the Android OS, as well as answer the question of which one is the most convenient and best. Google's operating system does not stand still, bringing something new with every update. However, it is difficult to keep up with each new version of the OS, and there is no particular point in this - solutions from two years ago still cope with their tasks perfectly. We hope our article will help you understand all the nuances of each version of Android and decide which is the best.