With Android 5.0 Key Lime Pie coming out in 2013, why are there so many new customers using older versions? After all, when purchasing a new PC it's customary to search for the newest version of a Windows or Mac operating system and then expect to see it installed on a newly purchased device.
Phones and Operating Systems
For those searching for lower end cellphones, the following is a smattering of operating systems currently being sold, listed by provider:
- Revol: Kyocera Milano, version 2.4 Gingerbread and Samsung Galaxy S, version 2.3 Gingerbread
- Straight Talk Wireless: Samsung Galaxy Proclaim, version 2.3 Gingerbread and Samsung Galaxy Precedent, version 2.2 Gingerbread
- Sprint: Samsung Transform Ultra, version 2.3 Gingerbread
For those searching for a newer version of the Android operating system and willing to spend a few more dollars, check these models out:
- Straight Talk Wireless: LG Optimus Extreme, version 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich
- Revol: LG 730, version 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich
- Sprint: Galaxy Nexus, version 4.2 Jellybean
Operating System Upgrades
From version to version, there are a multitude of changes and enhancements to the interface, processing speeds, security features, and other things that will make the average user's head spin. A few of the more visible and digestible changes are listed for those looking to make the difficult decision between one smart phone device and another. Check out the links for features listed on the Android Website.
1. Android Honeycomb 3.0
- Optimized for larger screens
- Holographic 3D style interface
- Keyboard redesign including a new tab key
- Updated blue tooth tethering capabilities (for example, a full-sized blue-tooth keyboard)
- Two pane interfaces for email and contacts
2. Android Ice Cream Sandwich 4.0
- Improved multitasking and animations
- Home screen folders and favorites tray
- Swiping technology to dismiss notifications
- Spell checker for finding and showing errors
- Enhanced control over data usage over wireless networks with metered plans
- Visual voicemail with saved audio files
- Direct connection to peer devices over wi-fi networks
- Android beam technology for NFC sharing between close up devices
3. Android Jellybean 4.2
- Multi-user interface (similar to logging into different users in Windows)
- Five lock-screen options and Daydream interactive screensavers
- External display support for presentations or sharing with wireless displays
- High Dynamic Range (HDR) scene modes for camera
- Lots of security enhancements
As Android operating systems evolve, new features will be added that may not be available on phones using older versions. While it may not have a huge affect on the available apps, or the capability to surf the wireless internet, it will significantly change the experience of using that device.
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