Android 8.0 Oreo: What’s new?

If it feels like donkeys ago that Google officially launched Android 8.0 Oreo, that's because it was - the announcement was made way back at the end of August '17.

And although it's already been rolled out on Google devices, the rest of us using non-Google smartphones are likely going to have to wait until the start of next year, according to most predictions.

It may be frustrating but it's no real surprise. Android isn't exactly renowned for quick updates, after all (the previous update, Nougat, is still only running on just 17.8% of devices a year after its release).

To help tide you over, we're running through a few of the key new features and improvements Android 8.0 Oreo is set to bring when it finally arrives. Take a look.

A boosted battery life

Whether you're playing online games on the likes of Casinomir and right near a big win, or in the middle of composing an important work email, there's nothing more frustrating than having your battery die on you.

According to Google, it's a nightmare situation that will soon become a thing of the past for Android users. Yup, the Google gods have heard your curses and your prayers, and Oreo, with its focus on improving battery life, is their answer.

How's it managing to accomplish this awe-inspiring feat? Well, mostly by cleverly limiting battery-draining background processes and apps that are not essential to your current activity.

Safety First

From hackings to harmful malware, there are plenty of nasty dangers waiting to corrupt your smartphone.

Oreo hopes to put your mind at rest with a new and improved security feature called Google Play Protect. It will update automatically, continually monitor your phone for threats or risks and take action to resolve them (by removing risky apps, for example).

It evens boasts a Safe Browsing feature for Chrome which will warn you of any dodgy sites or pop-ups as you browse the internet.

Other notable features

Android 8.0 Oreo also boasts a range of handy streamlining features to help you save some valuable time, including:

· Android Instant Apps - instead of waiting for apps to download before deciding whether you actually need them, this feature lets you use them online through your browser instead.

· Autofill API - fed up of manually typing in your email and passwords? Or are you that person that's continually forgetting their password? New autofill capabilities help you quickly log in to your favourite apps without all the hassle of manually putting in your details.

· Accessibility - simplified audio controls and new quick access options on the navigation bar for things like magnification are added bonuses.

We're also being treated to some new emojis (apparently these will include a fairy and a mermaid, amongst others), notification dots on apps in the homescreen and new downloadable fonts.

All in all, with a few much-needed security and battery improvements alongside some handy visual changes, there's a lot to look forward to with Android 8.0 Oreo. It seems as though the wait will be worth it, you'll be pleased to know.