Android N
The public version of the Android N will only be released in fall Google

The fourth instalment of the developer preview for Android N is here and it has brought about some significant changes including the final APIs, which is API level 24. This essentially means that developers can now publish apps with support for API level 24 on Google Play in alpha, beta and production release channels.

This is the second last testing version for the developer version of the OS after which only one preview will come out in July before being finally released in Q3. The exact date of the final release is not yet known but may happen sometime between September-October.

Here is a look at some of the major changes in the Developer Preview 4:

Fixes for issues reported by developers from previous beta version

  • The active network state might return incorrect values during some restricted background scenarios. This has been resolved.
  • Data Saver was restricting the foreground MMS mobile network request which has been taken care of.
  • Quick settings tiles and notifications were sometimes unresponsive which is fixed now.
  • Clock notifications can now be dismissed without any error.
  • Duplication of Bluetooth icon and other status icons has been resolved.
  • Additional Bluetooth connectivity fixes have been implemented.

Google has also indicated that the version number for Android N will be 7.0 which is more or less on expected lines. If one enables the demo mode, the time switches to 7:00. This number in the past referred to the version number.

To download the latest preview those already enrolled in the Android Beta Program will get an OTA update. Those who do not get the auto update or want to but can't wait can download new factory images from here.