What is the difference between Android 9 and Android 10?
Android 9 and Android 10
With the release of Android 10 (Android Q) in 2019, people around the world are going crazy about its fascinating new features and updates. From its name to the changes done in its OS, everything is being subjected to discussion.
Android 10, having so many things to offer; is it the best version of Android OS to date? And is it the most significant release of Android OS? Comparing Android 10 to its predecessor, people are wondering if it has got everything we want after Android 9?
In this article, we are going to compare the two versions of Android OS to see which one’s better.
UI Designs and Themes
No doubt, Android 9 added colours to the interface, but the aesthetic looks are taken to another level in Android 10. A system-wide dark mode, “The Dark Theme,” is introduced, that can be turned on and off at any time.
Android 10 is also giving us more freedom to play with the looks of the device. You can customize the themes, fonts, and even the icon shapes. In addition to this, Android 10 is giving support to Foldable phones, too, like Samsung’s Galaxy Fold.
Smart reply
Another difference between Android 9 and Android 10 lies in the messaging functionality. A new feature called “Smart reply” is introduced in the latest Android version. This comes in handy when you are busy and want to reply quickly to the messages.
By using an algorithm, it suggests a response to your emails and text messages. Now, instead of typing an answer, you have to select them, and you’re done.
A whole lot of emojis are also introduced in Android 10, containing new professions and a wide range of foods and animals.
Battery Consumption
In Android 9, ‘Automatic brightness adjusts’ and ‘Adaptive battery’ functionality improved the battery levels. But in Android 10, the dark mode, and an upgraded adaptive battery setting is introduced, and it makes the system use less battery. So, comparing the two, we can say, Android 10 updated battery consumption features provide longer life for the device.
Gesture Navigation
Another innovation done in Android 10 in comparison to Android 9 is in the field of gesture navigations. Android 9 had a pill-shaped home button, which helped in navigation.
In Android 10, this ‘Home button’ is removed, and quicker gestures are introduced. If you want to switch between the current and the previously used app, swipe up and hold, and then slide your finger left or right.
Fast Share
Android Beam is replaced with Fast Share in Android 10. In Fast Share, a combination of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Direct is used to create connection and transfer files. This is faster than what was possible in Android 9.
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and Connectivity options
Talking about connectivity, Android 9 can connect 5 different devices and switch between them in real-time. Android 10, on the other hand, has introduced a new method of Wi-Fi sharing without sharing the password.
It has a new feature that lets you create a QR code for your Wi-Fi network or scan a QR code to join a Wi-Fi network. Another Wi-Fi feature, known as ‘Adaptive Wi-Fi,’ is introduced that enables seamless connectivity. This is useful while playing online games or voice calls.
Notifications
Another change is that, in Android 9, you have to pull down the screen to check the notifications. While in Android 10, the app notifications now appear in the form of bubble chat heads. It’s pretty much the same as Facebook Messenger chat heads that can float across the screen.
Just tap on the bubbles to open them. You can perform some other tasks while attending these notifications, so it’s a new type of multitasking. You also have the option to set the notifications to Silent or Alerting mode.
Digital WellBeing
Digital WellBeing feature in Android 9 let you know how frequently you use different apps. This feature is enhanced in Android 10. ‘Focus Mode’ is introduced, which enables the users to turn off distracting apps while working. ‘Family Link’ is also added.
So, now you can monitor your kid’s activity on the device and set restrictions.
Privacy and security
In comparison to its predecessor, different privacy and security updates are introduced in Android 10. Now, apps operating in the background would seek permission to access data. Users can also decide if they want to make their location accessible to the third parties only when they are using it, or all the time.
Similarly, access to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and other connectivity options will be possible with permission. Changes have also been made to the Biometric API to employ the functionality of fingerprint and facial authentication to increase security.
The Verdict
After knowing all of the exciting new features Android 10 has to offer, the question is, which version is better, Android 9 or Android 10?. The answer depends entirely on the factors on which you want to compare the two.
Both these versions have introduced amazing and over the top features to the users. So, before coming to any conclusion, have a look at what factors you want to focus on, and what matters to you and decide for yourself.