Android 4.4.3 has just been officially rolled out over-the-air by Google, but as you'd expect, only a select batch of devices - notably the more recent Nexus models and Google Play Edition devices - will be in receipt of this relatively minor bump. Below, we'll check out the new features, run through the decidedly short list of compatible devices, and also present to you the download links (for Nexus devices) if you're unwilling to wait for the OTA.
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In an effort to make its mobile OS as seamless as possible, Apple is set to bring contextual, location-based shortcuts to the lock screen with iOS 8. This means if, for example, you're whimsically wandering around near a shopping mall and just so happen to be looking at your phone, iOS 8 may throw up an icon relating to the nearest Starbucks or Apple Retail Store, as well as other outlets of interest that aren't so closely affiliated with Apple.
Along with all of the more obvious features relating to the UI and general functionality of iOS, Apple has done quite a lot of work in improving the security features of its mobile operating system through the past few revisions. With iOS 8 having just been announced earlier on this week at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) keynote, some of the details are only now beginning to trickle in, and given the rife nature of iPhone theft in particular, users will be pleased to learn that the Cupertino outfit plans to make it even easier to track a lost, stolen or otherwise missing devices with iOS 8.
iOS has certainly helped in pushing the evolution of the mobile gaming scene over the past few years, but while Apple's decision to bring official third-party game pad compatibility with Made for iPhone (MFi) controller support was initially met with a warm response, things haven't taken off as intended. Now, though, it looks as though Apple plans to expand upon the groundwork already made by allowing iPhones (and their MFi peripherals) to serve as controllers for the wider ecosystem, encompassing devices like the iPad and Mac.
Those hoping to see some exciting new hardware revelations at WWDC were left sorely disappointed as Cook, Federighi and co. waxed poetic about the new software features of iOS 8 and OS X 10.10 Yosemite. But just because nothing was unveiled at the conference's keynote, this isn't to say that some of the touted products aren't on their way, and having delved the new beta of Xcode 6, one Apple enthusiast has already spotted signs that newer, larger iPhones and iPads could be on their way.
Since Apple introduced official support for third-party gaming accessories, we've seen a slew of renowned peripheral makers jump on the bandwagon, and now Razer has come through with a slide-out "Junglecat" case for iPhone.
Although Apple divulged some of the details pertaining to OS X 10.10 Yosemite and iOS 8 at WWDC, only now are certain new pieces of information coming to light. In what will go down as great news for developers and video reviewers alike, it would appear that the upcoming version of OS X includes a neat feature for screencasting iOS devices directly to Mac, without any need for third-party hardware.
Even though we've not had a chance to properly acquaint ourselves with Apple's in-progress CarPlay technology, we'd imagine that it would be just that little bit more enjoyable to try out from a $300,000 Ferrari FF as opposed to a more regular car. With Apple showcasing its in-car flavor of iOS at this week's WWDC, attendees have been trying CarPlay for size at the wheel of the Ferrari FF super car, and luckily for us folks who haven't had the privilege, there's a walkthrough video of the new feature in action.
A new, "chic" range of Google Glass lenses has just become available to purchase, and while you'll be paying a significant mark-up on the $1,499 asking price of the standard Explorer Edition models, you are, at least, less likely to be branded a "Glasshole."
Even though, with several other great announcements in the offing today, the revelation of a new keyboard is huge! And it ought not be played down how significant the introduction of QuickType is for the long-suffering army of iPhone, iPad and iPod touch users. Moreover, Apple has also rolled out third-party keyboard support, meaning we could soon see the likes of Swpye, SwiftKey et al joining the party on iOS.
