Google's Android Kit Kat OS: 10 features

1.The Kit Kat software underscores Google's ambition to ingrain its search engine and virtual assistant, Google Now, even deeper into people's lives. The Nexus 5 phone is the first device to run on Kit Kat, the latest version of Google's Android operating system.

2.

Understanding person's habits

It'll be easier for Google to learn about a person's habits and needs so it can display helpful information, such as an online post from a favorite blog or a suggestion to use Fandango's movie-ticketing service when standing in a long line at a movie theater.

When visiting a tourist attraction such as Yellowstone National Park, Google Now might automatically show information about geysers from the Web.

'We want to get to the point where you glance at your phone and it always delights you with what you need,' said Sundar Pichai, a Google executive who oversees Android.

3.

Improved voice recognition

With the release of Kit Kat, Google also has improved its voice recognition technology so it can engage in more meaningful dialogue with users.

4.

New search technology

Kit Kat also showcases a new feature in Google's search technology to fuse results from the Web and applications installed on a phone. For instance, a request for a certain restaurant will show information drawn both from the Web and the app for the reservation service OpenTable Inc.

Initially, only OpenTable and nine other mobile app makers have enabled this, but more are coming. This feature will also show up on other devices, including the iPhone, but for now it works best on the Nexus 5.

 5.

Use of Ok Google

With this feature, Google allows user to launch a voice search within the device. 'You don't need to touch the screen to get things done. When in Google Now, just say Ok Google to launch voice search, send a text,' claims Google.

 6.

Multitasking

Google claims that the new version of Android allows for better multi-tasking. According to Google, the system optimizes memory and improves the user's touchscreen so that it responds faster.

7.

New Phone App

The new phone app is meant to automatically prioritize the user's contacts based on the people he/she talks to the most. Along with this the caller ID system of the OS is now meant to surf matches from local Google Maps listing.

'Whenever you get a call from a phone number not in your contacts, your phone will look for matches from businesses with a local listing on Google Maps,' says Google.

 8.

New immersive mode

Apart from these, the Android 4.4 now boasts of wallpapers that extend through the notification tray and system buttons. Also while performing tasks like reading a book, playing games, a 'new immersive mode' automatically hides the status bar and navigation buttons.

 9.

Print photos

Kit Kat also allows the user to print photos, documents, and web pages from his/her phone or tablet. 'The user can print to any printer connected to Google Cloud Print and to other printers that have apps in the Google Play Store,' says Google.