Tech Report: Google Set To Unveil Next Version Of Android
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) - With the next version of Android, Google hopes to unify the look and feel of Android devices, regardless of the manufacturer.
The strategy that has made Google so competitive with Apple in the handheld market has also led to something of an identity crisis as tablet and smartphone manufacturers try to outdo each other.
"Android is fragmented. There are so many devices out there," said KCBS technology analyst Larry Magid.
Some choose to run different versions of Android. Others customize the interface to try and distinguish their handsets in a crowded marketplace.
KCBS Technology Analyst Larry Magid:
Tablet computers running Android may offer an interface that looks nothing like an Android phone made by the same manufacturer.
Apple iOS by contrast presents an almost identical experience for iPhone and iPad users.
"They're much more cohesive, and Google is trying to catch up with that," Magid said.
Enter Ice Cream Sandwich, the name for Android 4.0. Google and Samsung had planned to show off the new operating system at an event on Oct. 11 as rumors swirled of a release date in October or November.
That event was cancelled because of former Apple CEO Steve Jobs passing on Wednesday.
You can hear Larry Magid Tech Report Monday through Friday at 3:50pm on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM.
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