What is Android M? Unveiling Marshmallow and its Legacy.

Embark on a journey through the evolution of mobile operating systems as we explore what is Android M, also known as Android 6.0 Marshmallow, a pivotal release from 2015. Google set out to refine the Android experience, focusing on improved performance, enhanced security, and greater control for users. Imagine a world where your phone knows how to conserve energy without you lifting a finger, where your data is more secure than ever, and where your apps work seamlessly together.

That’s the promise Android M delivered.

This version, with its version number 6.0, wasn’t just a simple update; it was a comprehensive overhaul that laid the groundwork for many features we still rely on today. From its revamped permissions system to the introduction of Doze mode, Marshmallow sought to elevate the Android experience. Delve into its core features, from the revamped app drawer to the enhanced USB-C support, and discover how Android M changed the game for both users and developers.

Prepare to be amazed by the innovations that defined a generation of smartphones and tablets.

Overview of Android M (Marshmallow)

Let’s delve into the world of Android Marshmallow, a significant leap in the evolution of the Android operating system. This version, released with the aim of refining the user experience and optimizing performance, brought a host of improvements that still resonate with users today.

Defining Android M: The Basics

Android M, officially known as Android 6.0 Marshmallow, made its debut in 2015. It represents a key iteration in the Android ecosystem, focusing on enhanced user control and efficiency. The “M” in Android M, of course, stands for Marshmallow, continuing the tradition of naming Android versions after delicious treats.

Goals Behind the Android M Release

Google’s primary objectives with Android Marshmallow were threefold: improving user experience, enhancing security, and optimizing device performance. These goals were pursued through various features and system-level changes, leading to a more polished and capable mobile operating system.

Android M Version Number and Android Versioning System

Android Marshmallow is version 6.0, as mentioned. The Android versioning system follows a numerical sequence, with each major release typically represented by a whole number. This number is paired with a dessert-themed codename, a tradition that has become a recognizable aspect of the Android brand.

Key Features Introduced in Android M

Android M, later known as Marshmallow, wasn’t just a simple update; it was a carefully crafted evolution, focused on enhancing the user experience, boosting performance, and tightening security. The changes, though sometimes subtle, collectively represented a significant leap forward for the Android platform. It addressed core usability issues and paved the way for future innovations.

New Permissions Model

Prior to Android M, the permission model was a blunt instrument. When you installed an app, you were presented with a list of all the permissions it requested, and you had to accept them all upfront. This all-or-nothing approach often led to users blindly granting access to sensitive data, leading to potential privacy concerns. Android M revolutionized this system.The new permissions model granted users more granular control over app access.

Instead of granting all permissions during installation, users were prompted to grant permissions at runtime, when the app actually needed them. For example, an app requesting access to your contacts wouldn’t ask during installation, but only when you tried to use a feature that required it. This approach provided several key benefits:

• Enhanced Privacy: Users could review and selectively grant permissions, reducing the risk of apps accessing data they didn’t need.
• Increased Transparency: The runtime permission requests clearly indicated
  -why* an app needed a particular permission, empowering users to make informed decisions.
• Improved User Experience: Users were less likely to be overwhelmed with a long list of permissions during installation, leading to a smoother initial experience.

This change wasn’t just about adding a feature; it was about shifting the power dynamic. It gave users the ability to be active participants in their own privacy, allowing them to control how their data was used.

Doze Mode and Battery Life Improvement

Battery life has always been a key area of focus for Android developers. The introduction of Doze mode in Android M was a game-changer, providing a significant boost to standby battery performance. Doze mode leverages the device’s sensors to detect when the device is stationary and not in use. When the device is idle for a certain period, Doze mode kicks in, putting the device into a deeper sleep state.When Doze is active, the system restricts apps’ access to the network and CPU, minimizing background activity.

It also batches network requests and other tasks, reducing the overall power consumption. This means that when your phone is sitting on your desk or in your pocket, it consumes significantly less power than it would have under previous Android versions. However, the system still allows important functions like alarms and high-priority notifications to function.Here’s how Doze works, in a nutshell:

Device is stationary & idle –> Doze activates –> Background activity minimized –> Battery life extended

The result was a noticeable improvement in standby battery life. Users could leave their phones untouched for extended periods without seeing a significant drop in battery percentage. This was especially helpful for users who didn’t actively use their phones throughout the day, ensuring that the device was ready when needed.

App Standby and Resource Management

Android M also introduced App Standby, a feature designed to further optimize battery life and resource management. App Standby focused on limiting the resources available to apps that the user wasn’t actively using. The system determines an app’s “idle” state based on how frequently the user interacts with it.If an app isn’t used for a prolonged period, it enters the App Standby state.

In this state, the system limits the app’s network access and CPU usage. The app can still receive high-priority push notifications, but other background tasks are deferred. The system also limits the frequency with which the app can perform background operations. This prevents apps from needlessly consuming resources when the user isn’t actively using them.App Standby, in conjunction with Doze mode, helped to create a more efficient and resource-conscious Android experience.

It ensured that the device’s resources were prioritized for apps that the user was actively using, resulting in improved battery life and overall system performance.

Main Features of Android M

The table below summarizes the key features introduced in Android M, offering a quick reference to the major improvements.

Feature	Description	Benefit
New Permissions Model	Introduced runtime permissions, allowing users to grant access to individual permissions as needed.	Enhanced user privacy and control over app access.
Doze Mode	Enabled deeper sleep states for the device when idle, restricting background activity.	Significantly improved standby battery life.
App Standby	Limited the resources available to infrequently used apps, minimizing background activity.	Optimized battery life and resource management.

User Interface and Experience Enhancements

Android M, or Marshmallow as it’s affectionately known, didn’t just add features; it refined the very way youinteracted* with your phone. The focus was on making things simpler, more intuitive, and, frankly, more enjoyable. This wasn’t just about adding bells and whistles; it was about streamlining the experience, making the phone feel faster, and ensuring everything worked together seamlessly. The user interface underwent some significant makeovers, resulting in a much smoother and more pleasant experience for everyone.

App Drawer and Multitasking Interface Changes

The app drawer and multitasking interface, the gateways to your apps and running processes, received a significant overhaul in Android M. These changes were aimed at improving both the aesthetics and the functionality of these core system components. The goal was to make it easier and faster for users to navigate their devices.The app drawer transitioned from a horizontally scrolling list to a vertically scrolling one.

This seemingly minor change had a surprisingly significant impact. The new app drawer featured a more organized layout, with apps arranged alphabetically, making it easier to find what you were looking for. There was also a search bar prominently displayed at the top, allowing for quick app retrieval by name. The app drawer’s design was simplified, with a cleaner look and feel.

The app drawer also started anticipating your needs. It learned which apps you used most frequently and displayed them at the top of the list, making them even easier to access.The multitasking interface also saw a makeover. The card-based view was replaced with a more streamlined horizontal scrolling list of app previews. The design was much cleaner, making it easier to visually identify and switch between running apps.

You could now easily scroll through your open apps with a swipe, quickly jumping between them. This change simplified the process of multitasking and reduced the time spent switching between apps.

Improvements to Volume Controls and Audio Management

Android M provided a significant upgrade to how users managed audio, bringing greater control and clarity to the volume settings. The focus was on providing a more intuitive and user-friendly experience.The volume controls were redesigned to offer granular control over different audio streams. Previously, adjusting the volume would affect all audio outputs. In Android M, users could control the volume of media, alarms, notifications, and calls independently.

This was a welcome change, as it allowed users to fine-tune the audio experience to their preferences. The volume controls also included a “Do Not Disturb” mode, which allowed users to silence notifications and calls with ease.The new volume control panel provided a clear visual representation of each audio stream, making it easy to see the current volume level and adjust it as needed.

The interface was clean and simple, making it easy for users of all levels of technical expertise to understand and use.

Overall Responsiveness and Smoothness of the User Interface

Beyond specific features, Android M focused on improving the overall responsiveness and smoothness of the user interface. This was achieved through a combination of optimizations, performance improvements, and architectural changes.One of the key improvements was in the area of app launch times. Android M optimized the way apps were loaded and displayed, resulting in significantly faster app launch times. This meant that users spent less time waiting for apps to open and more time actually using them.Android M also introduced a new runtime environment called ART (Android Runtime).

ART replaced the older Dalvik runtime, and it offered a number of performance improvements. ART compiled apps ahead of time (AOT), rather than just-in-time (JIT), which led to faster app execution and a smoother user experience.Android M also made improvements to the animation system. The animations were smoother and more responsive, making the user interface feel more fluid and less laggy.

UI Changes and Their Impact on User Experience

The various UI changes in Android M had a tangible impact on the user experience. These improvements were designed to make the phone feel faster, more intuitive, and more enjoyable to use.

• Improved App Discovery: The revamped app drawer, with its alphabetical sorting and search functionality, made it significantly easier to find and launch apps. This was a noticeable improvement, especially for users with a large number of installed apps.
• Enhanced Multitasking: The new multitasking interface, with its card-based view, made switching between apps much more efficient. Users could quickly see and access their running apps without having to navigate through multiple screens.
• Granular Volume Control: The ability to control the volume of individual audio streams, such as media, alarms, and notifications, allowed users to personalize their audio experience. This gave users more control over how they experienced sound on their devices.
• Faster App Launch Times: The optimizations made to app launch times resulted in a snappier feel. Apps opened quicker, and the phone felt more responsive overall.
• Smoother Animations: The improved animations made the user interface feel more fluid and less laggy. This contributed to a more polished and enjoyable user experience.

Technical Underpinnings and API Updates

Android M brought a significant overhaul under the hood, refining existing systems and introducing new capabilities that enhanced both performance and developer options. These changes weren’t just about flashy new features; they were about building a more robust, efficient, and versatile platform. This section will delve into the technical heart of Android M, exploring key improvements and what they meant for users and developers alike.

Android Runtime (ART) Enhancements

Android M saw significant advancements in the Android Runtime (ART), the system responsible for executing applications. ART replaced the older Dalvik Virtual Machine, offering a more efficient and performant experience. These improvements were designed to make apps run faster, consume less battery, and provide a more stable user experience.One of the major enhancements in ART was the introduction of ahead-of-time (AOT) compilation.

AOT compilation involves translating the app’s code into machine code during installation, which means the app runs natively on the device’s processor.

This contrasts with Dalvik’s just-in-time (JIT) compilation, where code is translated during runtime. The move to AOT resulted in faster app startup times and improved overall performance, as the device didn’t need to translate the code every time the app was launched. However, the initial installation process for apps might take slightly longer due to the AOT compilation. ART also included improvements in garbage collection, leading to smoother performance and reduced stuttering, particularly noticeable in graphically intensive applications or those performing frequent background tasks.

Furthermore, ART’s optimization techniques were refined, allowing for better code execution and more efficient use of the device’s resources.

USB-C Support and Implications

Android M fully embraced the USB Type-C standard, marking a significant step forward in connectivity and power delivery. This new standard brought several advantages, including faster data transfer speeds, reversible connectors, and the potential for quicker charging.USB-C’s reversible design was a welcome change, eliminating the frustration of plugging in a cable the wrong way. The faster data transfer speeds allowed for quicker transfer of large files, such as photos and videos, between a device and a computer or external storage.

Moreover, USB-C supported Power Delivery (PD), enabling devices to charge at significantly higher wattages than previous USB standards.

Power Delivery allowed for faster charging, potentially reducing the time it takes to fully charge a device.

This was especially beneficial for larger devices, like tablets and laptops, which require more power. The adoption of USB-C also paved the way for more versatile accessories, such as docking stations and adapters, that could expand the functionality of Android devices.

New APIs and Functionalities for Developers, What is android m

Android M introduced a plethora of new APIs and functionalities, providing developers with powerful tools to create more engaging, efficient, and feature-rich applications. These changes covered a wide range of areas, from user interface enhancements to improved hardware access and security features.Here’s an HTML table detailing some of the key API changes:

API Name	Description
Runtime Permissions	A new permission model was introduced, allowing users to grant or deny permissions to apps at runtime. This gave users more control over their privacy and security, as they could choose which permissions to grant based on their understanding of how an app would use their data. For example, a user could choose to deny an app access to their location if they didn’t want the app to track them.
App Standby and Doze Mode	These features were introduced to optimize battery life. Doze mode put the device into a low-power state when it was idle, reducing battery drain. App Standby limited the resources available to infrequently used apps, further conserving battery. This resulted in significant improvements in battery life, particularly for devices that spent a lot of time in standby mode.
Fingerprint Authentication	A native fingerprint API was added, allowing developers to integrate fingerprint authentication into their apps. This provided a more secure and convenient way for users to log in, make purchases, and authorize other actions. The API was designed to be easy to use and secure, utilizing the device’s hardware-based fingerprint sensor for authentication.
USB Type-C Support	Enhanced API support for USB Type-C was included, enabling developers to take advantage of the new standard’s capabilities, such as faster data transfer speeds and power delivery. This allowed developers to create apps that could interact with USB-C accessories and take advantage of faster charging capabilities.

Security Improvements in Android M

Android M, also known as Marshmallow, wasn’t just about a fresh coat of paint; it was a significant leap forward in safeguarding user data and device integrity. Google implemented several key security enhancements to make Android devices even more resilient against threats and to give users greater control over their privacy. This update represented a commitment to building a more secure and trustworthy mobile ecosystem.

Improved Fingerprint Support

Marshmallow significantly improved fingerprint support, making it a more integral part of the Android experience. Before, fingerprint authentication was somewhat clunky and limited. With Android M, the API was standardized and opened up, allowing developers to seamlessly integrate fingerprint sensors into their apps.The benefits were clear:

• Enhanced Authentication: Fingerprints could be used not just for unlocking the device, but also for authenticating purchases on the Google Play Store and within third-party applications. This added a layer of security and convenience, replacing the need to repeatedly enter passwords.
• Wider Adoption: The standardized API encouraged more manufacturers to include fingerprint sensors in their devices, leading to wider adoption across the Android ecosystem. This, in turn, fostered a more secure and user-friendly experience for everyone.
• Secure Key Storage: Android M introduced a secure key store for fingerprint data, ensuring that sensitive information was protected even if the device was compromised. The fingerprint data itself was never stored in a format that could be easily accessed or exploited.

Enhanced Encryption Features

Android M upped the ante on encryption, providing more robust protection for user data stored on the device. Encryption, in simple terms, scrambles data, making it unreadable to anyone who doesn’t have the correct decryption key.Here’s how Android M’s encryption features improved:

• Full-Disk Encryption (FDE) as Standard: While FDE was available in earlier Android versions, it wasn’t always enabled by default. Marshmallow made FDE a requirement for devices, ensuring that all user data was encrypted by default. This meant that even if a device was lost or stolen, the data stored on it would be protected.
• Stronger Encryption Algorithms: Android M supported more robust encryption algorithms, making it harder for attackers to crack the encryption and access user data. This included support for the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), a widely used and highly secure encryption algorithm.
• Performance Optimization: Encryption was optimized to minimize its impact on device performance. This meant that users wouldn’t experience significant slowdowns while using their encrypted devices.

Verified Boot and Device Integrity

Verified Boot is a crucial security feature that ensures the integrity of the Android operating system. It’s like having a digital bodyguard that checks the software on your device every time it starts up.Here’s how Verified Boot works:

Verified Boot ensures that only verified and trusted software runs on a device. It starts by verifying the bootloader, which in turn verifies the system partition, and so on. If any part of the software has been tampered with, the device will either refuse to boot or boot in a limited, secure mode.

The significance of Verified Boot is multifaceted:

• Protection Against Malware: Verified Boot helps prevent malware from taking root on a device by ensuring that only authentic software is loaded during the boot process.
• Prevention of Tampering: It prevents malicious actors from modifying the operating system or installing unauthorized software. This protects the device from being exploited.
• Trustworthy Ecosystem: By verifying the software, Verified Boot helps build a trustworthy ecosystem where users can be confident that their devices are running legitimate and secure software.

Summary of Security Improvements and Their Impact

The security enhancements in Android M collectively created a more secure and user-friendly mobile experience. The impact of these improvements can be summarized as follows:

• Enhanced Fingerprint Support: Provided a more secure and convenient way to authenticate, authorizing app purchases and unlocking devices.
• Enhanced Encryption Features: Protected user data with full-disk encryption and stronger algorithms, safeguarding information in case of device loss or theft.
• Verified Boot: Ensured device integrity by verifying the boot process and preventing the execution of malicious software.
• Increased User Trust: These features collectively fostered a higher level of user trust in the Android operating system, giving users more control over their privacy and security.

Compatibility and Device Support

Android Marshmallow, like any major operating system update, arrived with its own set of compatibility hurdles. The rollout wasn’t a simple “one size fits all” affair; it was a complex dance of hardware, software, and carrier approvals. Understanding which devices initially benefited from the upgrade, the trials users faced, and the reasons behind limitations provides a valuable perspective on the evolution of Android.

Initial Devices Receiving the Android M Update

The initial wave of Android M availability was a closely watched event. Google’s own Nexus devices were, predictably, the first to receive the update. This ensured a smooth transition and provided a showcase for the new features. Beyond the Nexus family, other manufacturers began rolling out updates to their flagship devices.

• Nexus Devices: The Nexus 5, Nexus 6, Nexus 7 (2013), and Nexus 9 were among the first devices to taste the sweetness of Marshmallow. These devices, being directly supported by Google, enjoyed a relatively quick and seamless update process.
• Motorola: Motorola was known for its relatively prompt updates. Devices like the Moto X (2nd Gen) and Moto G (2nd Gen) received the update, though the rollout was staggered across different regions and carriers.
• HTC: HTC also pushed out updates to its flagship devices, including the HTC One M9 and HTC One M8. The timing of these updates varied based on carrier and region.
• Samsung: Samsung, with its vast portfolio of devices, began updating its high-end phones and tablets. The Galaxy S6, Galaxy S6 Edge, and Galaxy Note 5 were among the first to receive the update.

Update Process and User Challenges

The update process, while generally straightforward, wasn’t without its bumps. Users encountered various challenges during the transition to Android M.

• Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates: The primary method of receiving the update was through OTA downloads. This involved users receiving a notification and downloading the update directly to their device. However, download speeds could vary, and the process sometimes stalled.
• Manual Installation: Some users, particularly those with rooted devices or those who wanted a faster update, opted for manual installation using factory images. This required a certain level of technical expertise and carried the risk of data loss if not done correctly.
• Carrier Delays: Carrier approval was a significant bottleneck. Carriers would often test and customize the updates before releasing them, leading to delays for users on specific networks. This created frustration for users who were eager to experience the new features.
• Software Bugs: Early adopters sometimes encountered software bugs, such as battery drain issues or app compatibility problems. These issues were typically addressed through subsequent updates, but they impacted the initial user experience.
• Device-Specific Issues: The update process was not always smooth across all devices. Some devices experienced specific issues related to hardware or software configurations.

Limitations and Compatibility Issues on Older Devices

Older devices often faced limitations when running Android M. These issues stemmed from hardware constraints and the increasing demands of the new operating system.

• Performance Degradation: Older processors and limited RAM struggled to handle the demands of Android M. This could result in slower performance, app crashes, and a generally sluggish user experience.
• Battery Life Concerns: The new features in Android M, such as Doze mode, were designed to improve battery life. However, on older devices with less efficient batteries, the impact of these features could be less noticeable, or even lead to increased battery drain.
• Feature Incompatibility: Some features, such as the new permission model, might not have been fully supported on older devices. This could lead to app compatibility issues or a degraded user experience.
• Storage Limitations: Older devices often had limited internal storage. The Android M update and subsequent app updates could quickly fill up available storage, leading to performance issues and storage warnings.

Reasons for Inability to Upgrade to Android M

Several factors contributed to why certain devices were unable to upgrade to Android M. These limitations were often due to a combination of hardware constraints, manufacturer decisions, and the overall age of the device.

Hardware Limitations: Devices with older processors, limited RAM, or insufficient storage space often couldn’t meet the minimum system requirements for Android M. The operating system’s demands for processing power and memory meant that older hardware simply couldn’t provide an acceptable user experience.

Manufacturer Support: Manufacturers had to invest resources in developing and testing the Android M update for each device. This process was time-consuming and costly. Manufacturers often prioritized updates for their newer flagship devices, leaving older or less popular models without updates.

End-of-Life: Devices eventually reach their end-of-life, meaning the manufacturer stops providing software updates. This typically occurs after a certain period or when the device is no longer profitable to support. Older devices that were no longer actively supported by their manufacturers were unlikely to receive the Android M update.

Custom ROMs and Alternatives: While official updates were limited, the Android community often stepped in to provide alternatives. Custom ROMs, developed by third-party developers, offered a way to run Android M on unsupported devices. These ROMs, while offering new features, sometimes came with their own set of issues, such as bugs or stability problems.

Comparison with Previous and Subsequent Android Versions

Android M, or Marshmallow, wasn’t just another Android update; it was a significant step forward, building upon the foundations laid by its predecessors while paving the way for future innovations. Comparing it with Android Lollipop, the version it succeeded, and Android Nougat, its successor, reveals the evolution of the Android operating system, highlighting the continuous efforts to enhance user experience, security, and performance.

Android M vs. Android Lollipop

Lollipop, released in 2014, introduced a radical redesign with Material Design, offering a fresh visual language and improved performance. However, Android M, released in 2015, refined these aspects and introduced key improvements. One of the most significant enhancements was the introduction of granular permissions, giving users greater control over what data apps could access.

• Permissions: Lollipop had a more basic permission model, while Marshmallow introduced a runtime permission system. This meant users could grant or deny permissions to apps as they requested them, rather than all at once during installation. This significantly improved user privacy and control.
• Doze Mode: Lollipop’s battery optimization was limited. Marshmallow introduced Doze Mode, which intelligently put the device into a deep sleep state when not in use, drastically improving battery life. This was a game-changer for many users.
• App Standby: Complementing Doze Mode, App Standby limited the impact of infrequently used apps on battery life. This targeted background processes that drained power unnecessarily.
• Adoptable Storage: While Lollipop supported external storage, Marshmallow allowed users to adopt external SD cards as internal storage, expanding the available space for apps and data.
• Android Pay (Now Google Pay): Marshmallow saw the introduction of Android Pay, enabling mobile payments. This was a key step towards a more connected and convenient digital life.

Android M vs. Android Nougat

Nougat, released in 2016, built upon the foundation of Marshmallow, introducing even more advanced features. While Marshmallow focused on user control and battery life, Nougat emphasized multitasking and performance improvements.

• Multitasking: Marshmallow offered basic multitasking. Nougat introduced split-screen mode, allowing users to run two apps side-by-side, enhancing productivity.
• Notifications: Nougat’s notification system was vastly improved, offering bundled notifications and quick replies directly from the notification shade.
• Project Svelte: Nougat further optimized Android’s performance, leading to faster app launch times and smoother overall operation.
• Vulkan API: Nougat introduced the Vulkan API, offering improved graphics performance for gaming and other demanding applications.
• Seamless Updates: Nougat introduced seamless updates, allowing devices to update in the background without requiring a full reboot, minimizing downtime.

Comparative Table: Android M, Lollipop, and Nougat

The table below provides a concise comparison of the key features across Android M, Lollipop, and Nougat. It illustrates the progression of Android’s features over time, highlighting the improvements and innovations introduced with each version.

Feature	Android Lollipop (5.0-5.1)	Android Marshmallow (6.0)	Android Nougat (7.0-7.1)
Permissions	Basic permission model	Runtime permissions (granular control)	Further refinement of runtime permissions
Battery Optimization	Limited	Doze Mode, App Standby	Improved Doze Mode, Battery Saver improvements
Storage	External storage support	Adoptable storage	Further improvements to storage management
User Interface	Material Design introduction	Refinement of Material Design, App Drawer updates	Quick Settings panel improvements, UI tweaks
Multitasking	Basic multitasking	Basic multitasking	Split-screen mode, quick app switching
Notifications	Basic notifications	Basic notifications	Bundled notifications, quick replies
Performance	Improvements over previous versions	Optimizations, improved memory management	Project Svelte, Vulkan API, faster app launch times
Security	Security enhancements	Improved security features	Enhanced security features, file-based encryption
Payments	No native payment solution	Android Pay (Google Pay) introduction	Further development of Google Pay
Updates	Standard updates	Standard updates	Seamless updates

Legacy and Impact of Android M: What Is Android M

Android M, or Marshmallow, wasn’t just another version of the operating system; it was a pivotal moment in Android’s evolution. It laid the groundwork for many of the features and functionalities we now take for granted, fundamentally shaping the Android experience. Its influence echoes through every subsequent release, a testament to its innovative spirit and forward-thinking design.

Lasting Influence on Subsequent Android Versions

Android M’s legacy is woven into the very fabric of modern Android. Many of the core features introduced then are still integral parts of the operating system today, demonstrating their lasting impact. The focus on user experience, security, and power management set a new standard, influencing the direction of Android development for years to come.

• Permissions System: The granular permissions system, allowing users to control app access to sensitive data like location, camera, and microphone, was a game-changer. This approach significantly enhanced user privacy and security.
• Doze Mode: This power-saving feature intelligently puts devices into a deep sleep state when they are not in use, dramatically extending battery life.
• App Standby: Complementing Doze, App Standby limits the activity of infrequently used apps, further conserving battery power.
• Adoptable Storage: Android M allowed users to format external storage (like SD cards) as internal storage, providing more space for apps and data.
• Android Pay (now Google Pay): The introduction of Android Pay facilitated secure and convenient mobile payments.

Evolution of User Interface Elements and Functionalities

The user interface in Android M set the stage for a more refined and intuitive Android experience. While the look and feel have evolved over time, the core principles established in Marshmallow continue to influence the design of newer Android versions.

Consider the evolution of the app drawer, for example. In Android M, the app drawer was a vertical scrolling list. Over time, it has evolved into different layouts, but the fundamental concept of a centralized place to access all installed applications remains consistent. The notification shade, introduced in previous versions, was refined in Android M, and the basic structure and functionality have been carried over to current versions.

Detailed Description of Android M’s Features and Their Impact

Android M brought several innovative features that fundamentally changed the Android experience. These improvements addressed key user pain points and set a new standard for mobile operating systems.

Let’s take a closer look at some key features and their lasting impact:

• The Permissions System: Before Android M, apps often requested all permissions at installation, leaving users with little control. Marshmallow introduced a new permissions model, allowing users to grant or deny permissions at runtime. This enhanced user privacy by giving users more control over what data apps could access.
• Doze and App Standby: Battery life was a constant concern for Android users. Android M introduced Doze, which put the device into a low-power state when it was stationary and not in use. App Standby further optimized battery life by limiting the background activity of infrequently used apps. These features have significantly improved battery life, especially on devices that are not actively being used.

• Adoptable Storage: This feature allowed users to format external storage as internal storage. This was particularly beneficial for devices with limited internal storage, allowing users to install more apps and store more data. While the feature has its limitations, it expanded the capabilities of devices with limited internal storage capacity.
• Android Pay: Android Pay (now Google Pay) provided a secure and convenient way to make mobile payments. It leveraged NFC technology to enable contactless payments at supported terminals. This laid the groundwork for the widespread adoption of mobile payments, transforming how people pay for goods and services.

These features, along with others, combined to create a more secure, efficient, and user-friendly Android experience. The changes in Android M weren’t just cosmetic; they addressed fundamental issues and paved the way for future innovations, solidifying its place as a pivotal release in Android’s history.