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Android Developers Get Ready For Cupcake Release

By Scott Loganbill April 14, 2009 Categories: Mobile, Operating Systems, Software & Tools

Google released a new software development kit (SDK) Monday for Android developers. The SDK itself allows developers time to prepare their applications for the upcoming Android 1.5 mobile operating system upgrade, codenamed “Cupcake.”

Cupcake is said to include many significant bug fixes and developer APIs. Features to look forward to include:

  • Hardware-accelerated video recording and playback
  • On-screen keyboards and keypads
  • Save attachments from MMS messages
  • Music playback fades when receiving a call
  • An updated browser (using Webkit’s latest core and an optimized JavaScript engine nicknamed Squirrelfish)
  • Copy and paste from within the browser
  • Better search in the music and browser
  • Downloads can be paused
  • Support for third party application updates
  • Interface elements should be faster
  • Better third-party accessory APIs including stereo bluetooth (which means more and better accessories)
  • A slightly nicer looking user interface
  • A more intuitive dialer. No more lockouts when on a call

If you’re anxious to check it out, the SDK download includes an Android 1.5 emulator. However, you should be pretty comfortable with SDKs before attempting to run it.

According to the Android Open Source project, Cupcake is expected to hit devices by Q4. Google points to the Android developers blog for highlights of its new APIs.

The features in the roadmap aren’t too jaw-dropping when compared with the iPhone 3.0 release coming out in June, although still not bad for its second release. Also, there have been hints that Google may also be holding back a secret feature from the public eye. Netbook support, perhaps?

As for the codename? Someone at Google likes cupcakes perhaps a little too much (we’re looking at you Marissa Mayer).


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