The Top 10 Android 8.1 Features Everyone Need To Know!

After several days of release of Android 8.1 developer preview, many new features have been found and the the list is too long. However, there are almost UI changes and improvements rather than new features. So, here are the top 10 of all those new things. This writing is by Rachit Agarwal of Beebom. Here it is without any further due.

1. Automatic Light and Dark Themes

Probably my favourite feature that is coming with the new 8.1 update is the support for automatic light and dark theme. The feature was launched with Pixel 2 which automatically changed the theme on the device depending on the type of wallpaper someone is using. For example, if you are using a light wallpaper, your phone will display the light theme, but if you change to a dark wallpaper, the theme also will automatically switch to a dark mode. I think the below pictures explain this better than my words can. If you love dark mode, you are going to love this update.

2. Battery Levels For Bluetooth Connected Devices

Another good feature which debuted with the Pixel 2 was the devices ability to show the battery levels of connected Bluetooth devices such as wireless headphones and speakers. This feature is really handy for people who have ditched the headphone jacks and gone totally wireless. Not only that, 8.1 update also makes it really easy to see those battery levels. Previously you needed to go to the Bluetooth settings to see the battery levels, but now you can get a nice visual cue, as it displays the battery just next to the Bluetooth icon in the quick-settings panel. Now, this is something I love.

3. The New Power Menu

One neat feature that came with Android 8.0 in the new Pixel 2s is the redesigned power menu options. When you long-press on the power-button (on-off button), the power menu slides from the edge of the screen in a card format. Not only the new redesign and the accompanying animations look great, it’s also more functional as it keeps the “Power Off” and the “Restart” option just next to your finger. This means a user doesn’t have to use two hands or fumble with one hand to get to the options. With the developer preview of Android 8.1, the same feature has been ported to all the other supported devices. I also like the fact that automatic light and dark theming also works with the power menu.

4. Revamped Settings Page

Just like Apple revamps the Control Center with each new iOS release, Google does the same with its settings app. The Settings app that came with the Pixel 2 is probably the best version of it yet. With 8.1 developer preview, Google is bringing the same Settings app with some minor improvements. Now, the search icon which occupied the top-right of the Settings home page covers the whole top bar and looks prominent. Some settings menu items have also been rearranged to make it easier to find them. Also, the navigation bar color changes to match the light theme of the settings menu, with the color of the navigation buttons fading with time if left unused.

5. New Oreo Easter Egg

What will a new Android update be without its Easter Egg? With the Android 8.0 launch, Google disappointed many users by not including Oreo as the Easter Egg. Well, the developer preview of 8.1 changes all that by showing Oreo in all its glory. However, the sad looking octopus still remains.

6. Keep WiFi On During Sleep Option Removed

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