Android 4.4 KitKat launch teased by mass Google apps update

Android 4.4 KitKat

Are the app updates a signal for the KitKat launch?




A large number of Google apps have been updated in the Google Play Store, hinting that an Android 4.4 KitKat launch may be imminent.


Nearly all of the Google app suite have been updated over the past couple of days, with 16 in total getting updated so far.


The mass update could suggest that an Android 4.4 KitKat update is just around the corner. The next Google mobile OS is expected to launch alongside the heavily rumoured Google Nexus 5 flagship and perhaps even the Google Nexus 10 2.0 tablet as well.


App updates usually pass by unnoticed, but when Google decides to update all its apps en masse, it is a signal of something to come.


The Blogger, Calendar, Chrome, Drive, Earth, Gmail, Googles, Google , Hangouts, Keep, Play Magazines, Translate, Wallet, Analytics and Fiber have all been updated in the past 48 hours.


Android KitKat and the Nexus 5 are tipped for a special and surprise launch event on November 1, now just two days away.



Android 4.4 KitKat Features


Along with some gentle app and interface redesigns, Android 4.4 KitKat will introduce several new features for Android users.


One of the main ones teased by several UI screenshot leaksis a new “Tap & Pay” function that should make NFC have a larger part in the operation of the Nexus 5. It will most likely tie-in with Google Wallet too.


Similar to the functionality of the US-exclusive Moto X, the Nexus 5 will feature the always listening mode that will allow you to say “Ok Google” to get your smartphone’s attention.


Obvious changes have been made to the camera UI too, with Google introducing Instagram-style filters and the option to save pictures as PDFs in order to send them directly to a printer.


Next, read our pick of the best Android phones of 2013.


Via: Reddit