Google has just released a new developer preview version for its upcoming Android N platform. While it is still in beta stage, speculations suggest that one confirmed feature for the new Android version is full support for pressure sensitive displays, countering Apple's 3D Touch feature.
According to The Verge, Google itself has already confirmed that with the launch of Android N, the "specific shortcuts launcher" feature will be integrated in the platform itself. This means that third-party tech manufacturers who will use Android N as a platform for their devices can level up their specs sheet to include pressure-sensitive displays. This will make navigating through a number of apps convenient, and will complement the "Launcher shortcuts" feature already hinted at on the new developer preview version of Android N.
Basically, having support for pressure-sensitive displays extends the features and options of the device. This allows for a flagship to distinguish between a soft press and a hard tap on the screen, and the firmware support opens different commands or options depending on the customized features. In Apple's 3D Touch, a soft finger press opens an app in normal window mode. Meanwhile, once a hard tap is detected, the integrated-firmware support activates contextual menus right at the shortcut window, without the user opening and navigating a series of tabs and options.
According to Android Authority, with Google's confirmation, fans may see more Android-run devices with pressure sensitive displays. To date, only Huawei's Mate S has the feature, since the tech manufacturer layers its Android version with a homegrown EMUI. The industry follower believes that since Google will integrate full support for this new feature, pressure-sensitive displays will be showcased with the rumored 2016 lineups of new Nexus flagships. In particular, pressure-sensitive options feature may be highlighted in at least two new Nexus phones, as well as a refreshed Nexus 7 tablet.
