Android 4.2 New Features: Plus Video of Nexus 4, Nexus 10, Android 4.2 at Google HQ

[dgstorm]

We thought you guys might like to get a bigger taste of the new features in Google's newest Android 4.2, so we put together this little bullet-point article, complete with a link to Google's page with further details. We also included a cool video produced by The Verge showcasing Google's new big gadgets today, and featuring an insider look at Google HQ. Here's the summary of Android 4.2 features:

• New mode called Photo Sphere - New Photo software Photo Sphere lets users take 360-degree photos with Android 4.2. It also allows users to take full 360-degree photos composed out of stitched images. Also, the composite images can be viewed right on the device and shared on social networks, and can post them on Google Maps.
• There is now an improved on-screen virtual keyboard - This new keyboard features Gesture Typing. It's basically Google's take on Swype with upgrades. This new software automatically adds spaces and can predict the next word you are trying to type. Additionally, voice typing is improved. You ca speak your messages out-loud and the software can convert them to text even while offline.
• Now includes multiple user support, and enhanced keyboard features (this feature is for tablets only) - Interestingly, the code for this feature was already in 4.1 but Google only just now "activated" it for users. Google indicated, "Everyone can have their own homescreen, background, widgets, apps and games – even individual high scores and levels! And since Android is built with multitasking at its core, it’s a snap to switch between users – no need to log in and out."
• Android 4.2 Now includes wireless mirroring on any TV that is connected through the same Wi-Fi. This allows a user to display anything from your on your device's screen onto your HDTV, like YouTube, movies, pics and websites.
• The final new feature is called Daydream - this new feature attempts to "jazz up" your lock screen. It basically displays entertaining or useful information (like your own personal photo album, or favorite headlines) while your Android is locked or idle.

It's amazing how much Google decided to pack into an "incremental" .1 update. Some of these features are things Google has been teasing or sorely needing for some time. What do you guys think?

Source: Android - What's New in Android 4.2

[Jeffrey]

Wow totally cool

[Jeffrey]

Nexus 4 launches 11-13 16G $349. Unlocked

[Miller6386]

WOW!!! I am really on the fence about this.... I think I may sell my S3 for the NEXUS 4..... Only deal breakers might be the lack of 4G and no SD slot.... I wish there was somewhere local I could put my hands on one to see for sure.....

[CR6]

You're better off with the S3. Nothing impressive about the new Nexus at all. :thumbdown:

tap'n

[Miller6386]

I actually kind of like the styling of it... Plus I like how the camera is set up on it with the touch and hold for the menu... I always find myself fumbling with the menu looking for things on mine.. Just seems a little more user friendly... Plus I am NOT real happy with VZW or Sammy at the moment... Maybe that will pass as the week goes on.... Just missing my smartphone big time right now... Tired of having to actually check my Email every 30 minutes.......

Also can anyone tell me with the google now if the Tracking Number feature will work with all Google Now or just the 4.2 Version... That would be a HUGE selling point for me as I get about 15 UPS and FedEX shipments a week...

[jwalz]

You're better off with the S3. Nothing impressive about the new Nexus at all. :thumbdown:

tap'n

This is what we call brutally honest

[CR6]

I just would have thought they'd up'd the specs or have done something different. Anything. Instead, they go and take away external storage and LTE and keep the same specs as the S3. LAME. Not to mention its made by LG. You can have it. But that's just my 2 cents, which by the way, don't mean a hill of beans.

tap'n

[ljhgeist]

One thing I am very interested in is the wireless mirroring on any wifi connected tv.. I have a wifi connected tv thru direct tv.. I can't make the slll and the tv play nice. I the tv comes with "media share", and they both see each other but nothing will play from the phone to the tv.. No problem playing off the pc to the tv. I gave up after about a week. I don't know if it's a phone problem, a direct tv problem or simply an operator problem. sorry if this is a topic for another area.

[UltraDroid]

Nexus 4 launches 11-13 16G $349. Unlocked

I plan on grabbing one as soon as I can come up with the money.