Android N It will be the new version of the operating system. It will arrive with a good number of new features, some of which we've already discussed. However, the main one, without a doubt, will be the Multi-windowand the ability to run different apps on different windows in the style of Windows. This will be key in smartphones, but especially so in tablets. It could revolutionize completely the world of tablets.
Android lagged behind
And the truth is, the arrival of Android N is essential. Google's operating system was... falling behind Regarding what was coming to market, Apple was already selling its iPad Pro as the tablet that would replace the personal computer. Logically, the Microsoft Surface had already assumed that role long before the Cupertino company's device. But we couldn't find it. nothing like it among Android tablets.
Some brands, like Lenovo, had tried to launch Android tablets that were a hybrid between a laptop and a tablet, but without much success. Furthermore, Android's biggest problem has been that some manufacturers have started to focus on Windows 10 in their tablets, as is the case with Samsung, for example, with its new high-end tablet. Thus, Android found itself at a difficult crossroads regarding tablets, and even more so now with the launch of the iPad Pro.
However, Android N It will play a key role in revolutionizing the world of Android tablets. Google is clear that the ability to run multiple apps simultaneously will bring Android N to a level similar to Windows, allowing tablets to truly be used as if they were... computers useful for multitaskingWith this feature, it would improve upon what Apple offers with its iPad Pro, which only allows two apps to run simultaneously, as it would allow two apps to run simultaneously. multiple windows on the screen with different apps.
However, one last thing remains: manufacturers might decide to embrace Android when Windows seems the best option to compete with the iPad Pro. For now, it's highly likely that Google will continue focusing on its own tablets, both the Nexus line and a possible new Google Pixel. If so, other manufacturers, like Samsung and Huawei, might see opportunities in the market and decide to launch their own tablets with Android N. The stable rollout will be through... regular update cycleTherefore, until then we will not be able to know exactly what the android future holds for us.
Multi-window technology evolves: floating windows and bubbles
Beyond splitting the screen in two, Google is working on a feature that allows Launch any app in a floating bubblenot just chats or messaging. According to code detected in internal builds (such as Android 2510 Canary of the Pixel Launcher), when you drag the app icon From the taskbar to a lower corner, the application opens in a floating window that does not occupy the entire screen.
This approach makes it easier to keep apps like YouTube, Chrome, or Messages "floating" while you work on something else. It's a step toward close the gap between traditional Android multitasking and desktop style, integrating it directly into the taskbar and home screen to make it more intuitive than split-screen mode.
Previous versions of this idea were considered but never materialized, but all indications are that Google has finally moved forward with it. polishing in the background to fit with the tablet interface. There's even an animated tutorial in the system that explains the gesture the first time, indicating an advanced stage of development within a future QPR update of the System.
The advantage over split screen is clear: it's faster and less clumsy for specific actions, and combines with the Bubbles API already used for chat notifications, elevating it to a feature system level which can be applied to any app.
Three apps at once: flexible split screen
Officially, Android allows multitasking with two applications split-screen mode. But on tablets with large screens, this feels insufficient. Google is experimenting with a mode of flexible split screen With more than two apps, and three docking zones when entering multitasking mode. The layout features two main columns and a third. smaller, similar to what layers like OxygenOS (10% / 45% / 45%) are already exploring.
This pattern would allow two standard-sized apps and one operational preview which you can bring to the front with a tap. Combined with floating windows, this opens up a hybrid workflow: two "pinned" apps and one or more in bubble for quick reference.
On smaller screens or in budget ranges, floating windows help to optimize spaceOn larger tablets, the triple split maximizes productivity without forcing constant switching between tasks or views.
Gestures and taskbar: how it fits into the experience
The heart of these improvements lies in the taskbar Introduced for large screens: from there you drag an app icon to the bottom corners to turn it into a bubble, or you anchor it to the areas activated by the flexible split screen. The system guides with a animation for the first use so that the gesture is natural.
The flow combines the best of desktop and mobile: you can resize, move, and manage windows floating tools on your tablet's "desktop," without giving up Picture-in-Picture or drag-and-drop between apps, a feature that Android on tablets and foldables has been gradually reinforcing.
For the user, this means watching videos while writing, chatting without losing focus on a document, or keeping a floating browser window open. Quick queriesAll this with less friction than rearranging blocks in split screen, and with consistent behavior in the system launcher.
And although these capabilities usually debut first on Google devices, their rollout involves the quarterly QPRs and by how each manufacturer integrates the feature into their interface. Samsung, OnePlus, Lenovo, and others will be able to adapt the gestures and interface to fit their offering, including various modes. DeX or extended desks.
Thus, Android N's original promise of Multi-window expands to multitasking. truly freeFloating windows with "bubble anything," a three-column split screen, and a taskbar that acts as a hub. This combination makes Android tablets more than just "big phones." about their experience to that of a PC.