When Google announced a press event with senior vice president of Chrome and Android Sundar Pichai, we knew to expect the Android news we’ve been waiting for: the release of the next generation of Android, nicknamed Key Lime Pie. Android 4.3 updates were conspicuously absent from the Google I/O conference in May, so we’ve been anxious to hear what’s in store of the operating system. Let’s take a look at all the rumors regarding upcoming Android products:
The New Nexus 7
via Android Central
By now it’s difficult to call the new Nexus 7 a rumor. According to Android Central, BestBuy included an ad for the Nexus 7 in Sunday’s circular. The ad boasts a 1920 x 1200 display and 16 GB of storage for a price of $230. Last night BestBuy reportedly started taking pre-orders for the new Nexus, even before Google itself announced the new device. What’s more, the featured image used by BestBuy is assumed to display Android’s Key Lie Pie update. Way to ruin the surprise, Best Buy.
Mystery Device: ‘Chromecast’
via Droid Life
Droid Life was alight last night when a writer found a new mystery device, called the “Chromecast,” listed online as a Google Play Device. What might a “Chromecast” be? Some believe it to be a Chrome dongle for TV displays and monitors that would allow users to display mirrored content from smaller devices such as smartphones, tablets, or computers onto a larger screen device.
Though clicking on the device name directed the writer to a broken link, and the device has since disappeared from the list, there is still speculation that the Chromecast will be released soon, if not at today’s press event.
The New Android OS: Key Lime Pie
Last but not least, Android 4.3 (or Key Lime Pie) is expected to be announced at today’s event. Though Google’s been secretive about what the OS update will entail, rumors say the upgrade will feature more under-the-hood improvements for Android than major cosmetic changes. Here’s what to expect from the Android 4.3 upgrade:
- Bluetooth LE (Low Energy) for more efficient Bluetooth use
- OpenGL ES 3.0 support for improved graphics performance
- New dialer options
- An “always on” option for Wi-Fi based location services
- A revamped camera app
Google’s press event will begin at 9 a.m. Pacific Time (that’s 12 p.m. noon Eastern). Tune in then for official updates!
What do you think today’s press event will entail? Have you heard any other rumors? Share with us in the comments section.