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At today’s Breakfast with Sundar Pichai event, Google saw fit to finally announce Android 4.3 and while there’s nothing too spectacular included in this latest update to Jelly Bean, it brings with it the tools that will keep Android current and somewhat future proof. Hugo Barra stood up on stage to announce the new Nexus 7 but, he also went on to detail Android 4.3 and what’s new under the hood.
For the most part, this is more of a maintenance release for Android and it brings support for OpenGL ES 3.0, Bluetooth Low Energy and of course, a boatload of tweaks under the hood as well. There’ll be more information on Android 4.3 as soon as Google update the Android website but, it’s still showing Android 4.2 right now, so check back with us later on. There’s also the addition of the same camera app that debuted with the Google Play editions of the HTC One and the Samsung Galaxy S4.
The most interesting piece of the update is arguably the improvements made to user accounts that debuted with Android 4.2 on tablets. This time around, there are restricted accounts, which is essentially a parental control type of thing. Through the use of restricted accounts, you can give an account access to only certain apps, such as games and limited settings. This is perfect for those sharing a tablet with kids or even just other members of the family. Also, this hides away in-app purchases within apps, so there’s no more worrying that the little one is going to max out your card buying more coins.
As with most other updates to Android, the update will be coming to the Nexus 4, the (old) Nexus 7, the Nexus 10 and of course, the Galaxy Nexus. These updates should be starting today but, you might not see it right away. Expect the update to hit your Nexus in the next couple of days or so.