
According to a few different reports (as compiled by BGR), several key features of Android M may have been revealed. These features have been indirectly ascertained by reading between the lines of what Google I/O developers have been invited to check out during Google I/O this year. Here's the breakdown of what the rumors suggest:
- “Voice Access” - adds voice as a new interaction method in apps on top of touch - this basically suggests that support for voice activation of apps and their specific features will be baked into Android M, offering users greater levels of hands-free use.
- “Nearby” - (a previously rumored feature from the past) - Allows Android devices to communicate with other people, places and devices who are simply in close proximity - the rumors suggests this may not come standard with Android M at first, but could be enabled with a later Play Services update - there will also be a developer's session called “Proximity-Based Communication” which lends this rumored feature more credence.
- "Material Design" - it looks like Google plans to push and expand their Material Design UI concept even further with Android M. There are several Material Design sessions scheduled during Google I/O. One is called “Bringing Material Design to life on Android.”