Image: INQUIRER.net/Mark Diamat
Entry level devices need not be left behind to compromise when Android Oreo 8.1 hits smartphones. Google has announced that a modified version of the new Android Oreo 8.1 will be made available specifically for devices with only one gigabyte of memory (RAM) or less.
This version has been labelled the Android Ore (Go Edition). It will be available for manufacturers to include in their devices alongside the launch of Android 8.1.
Apart from having limited memory to run apps with, entry-level smartphones often have small storage capacities. Developers considered this and cut the normal operating system installation size in half. This allows for more third party apps to be installed by the user.
Image: Google
Google’s own apps have also gotten the space-saving treatment and were optimized for the limited hardware capabilities of entry-level smartphones. These apps include Google Go, Chrome, YouTube Go, Maps Go, Gmail Go, Google Play, Gboard, Files Go and Assistant Go.
According to the statement, the modified Google Play will even recommend apps made to run on entry-level devices. On the other hand, users still retain access to all apps available on the Google Play Store.
Image: Google
The latest security features unique to Android Oreo have also been retained on the Go Edition.
Due to the high rate of smartphone technology turnover, some devices quickly get left behind when new software updates are released. Android Oreo Go Edition may help to extend the lifespan of devices and perhaps breathe new life to much older ones. JB
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