Google Releases Android 5.0 Lollipop SDK and Nexus Preview Images

An anonymous reader writes: As promised, Google today released the full Android 5.0 Lollipop SDK, along with updated developer images for Nexus 5, Nexus 7 (2013), ADT-1, and the Android emulator. The latest version of Android isn't available just yet, but the company is giving developers a head start (about two weeks), so they can test their apps on the new platform. To get the latest Android 5.0 SDK, fire up Android SDK Manager and head to the Tools section, followed by latest SDK Tools, SDK Platform-tools, and SDK Build-tools. Select everything under the Android 5.0 section, hit "Install packages...", accept the licensing agreement, and finally click Install. Google also rolled out updated resources for their Material Design guidelines.

Comments

Just make it fast

[danbob999]

Android didn't need a new design overhaul. I just hope the new OS is fast and functional.

Re:Just make it fast

[DaHat]

How fast can any OS (or person) run with a stick up ones rear the way the Lollipop mascot seems to ?

Re:Just make it fast

[_UnderTow_]

I had the same issue with my Note 3. With it deciding that 10 apps needed to be updated at the same time I was using my phone for navigation or transferring money to my spending account.

I decided to just shut off all automatic updates from the google play store, and I've been much happier since. I still get notifications when apps need updating, which is fine since I can decide to update when it makes sense for me. I wouldn't mind the auto updates if it didn't make the phone damn near unusable while it was happening.

Re:Just make it fast

[rwa2]

Yes it's faster, since they're migrating from the Dalvik JIT runtime to the new ART precompiled app runtime.
But actually, you don't really have to wait for Android 5 to hit your device, it's been buried in the developer options dialog since 4.2.2 http://www.cultofandroid.com/5...

Hit our Nexus 4 and 5 with this yesterday after reading about it in an arstechnica comment... they're much snappier opening and switching between apps now.

Android

[kick6]

That's not google's problem, that's handset manufacturer's problem. That's like saying Dell should "just give everyone win8" because, you know, potato.

news for nerds?

[ganjadude]

To get the latest Android 5.0 SDK, fire up Android SDK Manager and head to the Tools section, followed by latest SDK Tools, SDK Platform-tools, and SDK Build-tools. Select everything under the Android 5.0 section, hit "Install packages...", accept the licensing agreement, and finally click Install.

or their grandparents???? Thanks, I think If I am a developer, I know how to update my toolset just fine

Re:news for nerds?

[dotancohen]

I think If I am a developer, I know how to update my toolset just fine

I know developers who could not install the text editor that they edit PHP with. I'm not joking, and I have to deal with them regularly.

Re:Android

[CastrTroy]

If it's anything like the rest of Android development, if you haven't used it in a few months, it's most likely completely changed from the way you did it last time.

Re:Android

[tepples]

Nexus devices are supported about as long as iDevices. And Windows Phone 7 devices never got 8 either.

Re:Android

[swillden]

I bought a Nexus 7 2012 in the assumption Google would update the OS as long as the hardware could handle it. Luckily CyanogenMod still fully supports it.

If you didn't have CM on it, you'd get 5.0 on November 3rd. Android has announced that N7 (2012 and 2013) will be in the first group of Nexus devices to get it.

Re:Android

[ArhcAngel]

It WAS the OEM's problem that's why they began locking their sh!t down. They couldn't have you upgrading the software on your device and not need the newest shiny. How would they stay in business if they let you do that. I bought the original Nook Color. Arguably the most hacker friendly android device ever made. I am running KitKat 4.4.4 on it ATM and it runs faster than when it was new. B&N realized to their horror they had not locked consumers into the B&N ecosystem and future devices were considerably less friendly to customization. I also have a Galaxy S (D700) running KitKat 4.4.4 with no noticeable issues. The hoops needed to get KitKat on the Galaxy SII (D710) were a veritable nightmare because Samsung started mucking with the works to keep me out. It has gotten so bad root ability and customize ability are now selling features for some OEMs.