If the Android operating system had a another name , it would be "flexible." From games to health and lifestyle applications, Android phones give users access to a broad range of tools. Android phones come in different sizes, each with varying hardware features. While this is undoubtedly a good thing, it sometimes makes the task of choosing an Android phone a little more challenging. A good tip is for shoppers to prioritize the key features of each phone.
Display Size and Resolution
The size, 4 inches, has grown to become the norm for Android phones. It is small enough for owners to carry around comfortably but large enough to allow for easy touchscreen use. However, with the advent of phablets, most of the top phone manufacturers now offer larger screen sizes. For instance, the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 comes with a 5.7-inch screen, while the Galaxy Nexus and Nexus 4 have 5 and 4.7 inch screens respectively.
In addition to varying sizes, Androids come with different resolution depths. Modern phones feature resolutions of up to 1080p. As a rule, a pixel per inch (ppi) density of 250 to 320 is ideal. Although some phones boast even higher resolutions, it is hard to detect the difference with the human eye without peering too closely once you go above 300 ppi.
Phablets
Phablets are not for everyone but they provide a unique solution for individuals who prefer this form factor. The large screen makes phablets a better choice for viewing websites and documents. They also lend themselves better to viewing of movies and media files.
be sure about the Battery Life
Most Android phones offer decent battery life. A single charge typically lasts an average of 24 hours with normal calling and use habits. However, some phones deliver better battery spans, stretching well north of the 30-hour margin. Certain models, such as the Moto X, come with advanced features that allow them to optimize their energy usage for longer energy gains. Students and business professionals who are constantly on the go find the option of Android phones with long battery lives an appealing choice.
check if Detachable Batteries is possible
Some Android phones come with detachable batteries. For such phones, owners may consider the option of purchasing backup batteries for emergencies. Other phones however come with built-in batteries.
check the Memory Capacity
Android smarts phones come with varying storage capacities. Some smartphones even come with MC slots that allows for expandable storage options. Ultimately, the question of storage depends on the needs of the users. For consumers who prefer to store their photos, music, and video files on their mobile devices, the ability to expand memory storage is likely a key feature. However, for shoppers who intend on doing little downloading and prefer using their Android phones solely for communication, the question of storage is unlikely to be an issue.
Pick an Android Operating System
The features that come with a particular Android flavor may affect shopping decisions. Google has not rested on its laurels since the launch of the first Android operating system. Over the years, the company has released different versions. Newer operating systems offer upgraded features and come with fixes and corrections for different bugs.
Android Firmware Version
|
Operating System Name
|
Key Features
|
Year Released
|
Android 1.0
|
Apple Pie
|
Web browser
Gmail synchronization
Google Maps
|
2008
|
Android 1.1
|
Banana Bread
|
Save MMS attachments
Hide keyboard in caller application
|
2008
|
Android 1.5
|
Cupcake
|
Bluetooth support
Record/watch videos
Text prediction
|
2009
|
Android 1.6
|
Donut
|
Turn-by-turn navigation
|
2009
|
Android 2.0 to 2.1
|
Eclair
|
Digital zoom
Live wallpaper
HTML support
|
2009
|
Android 2.2
|
Froyo
|
USB tethering
|
2010
|
Android 2.3 to Android 2.3.7
|
Gingerbread
|
Google Talk
Google Wallet
Video chat
|
2010
|
Android 3.0 to Android 3.2.6
|
Honeycomb
|
Improved Wi-Fi
Support for mice joysticks
Google Books
Re-sizable widgets
Updated U.I
|
2011
|
Android 4.0 to Android 4.0.4
|
Ice Cream Sandwich
|
Facial recognition
Voice recognition
Android beam
|
2011
|
Android 4.0 to 4.3
|
Jelly Bean
|
Gesture typing
Toggle wireless Hebrew/Arabic right-to-left support
|
2013
|
Android 4.4
|
Kit Kat
|
Screen recording
Enhanced notification
Improved performance
|
2013
|
An easy way to gauge how old an Android operating system is to check the first letter of the version. Google names each successive release in alphabetical order. The first version was Apple Pie, the second Banana Bread, the third Cupcake, and so on.
