Android 9
Released in 2018, Android 9 (Pie) introduced an era of smarter, more adaptive user experiences. A significant highlight was Adaptive Battery and Brightness, which used AI to learn user habits, optimizing power usage and screen settings automatically. The new Navigation System introduced a single pill-shaped button, laying the groundwork for gesture navigation.
Android 9 focused on digital well-being, with features like App Timer, Wind Down Mode, and Dashboard, helping users manage screen time and reduce distractions. Enhanced App Actions predicted user intent, suggesting shortcuts like starting a playlist during workouts. For a more immersive experience, Android Pie refined notification management with bundled notifications and smart replies directly within the notification panel.
Additionally, privacy and security were improved with encrypted backups and restricted app access to sensors in the background. Android 9 also offers better support for notched displays and multi-camera setups, paving the way for modern smartphone designs.
Android Pie vs Android Oreo
| Android 8 (Oreo) | Android 9 (Pie) | |
| Navigation | Traditional three-button navigation | Introduced gesture-based navigation system |
| Battery Management | Background limits for apps | Adaptive Battery for AI-driven optimization |
| Brightness Control | Manual and automatic options | Adaptive Brightness learns user preferences |
| Digital Wellbeing | Not available | Introduced Dashboard, App Timer, and Wind Down |
| Notifications | Notification dots and snoozing | Bundled notifications with inline smart replies |
| AI Features | Google Assistant and basic AI integrations | Enhanced App Actions and Slices for predictions |
| Multi-Camera Support | Limited camera features | Optimized for multi-camera and notched displays |
| Privacy | Limited permission management | Restricted app access to sensors in the background |
| Media | High-quality audio codecs like LDAC | Added HDR support and enhanced audio capabilities |
| Performance | Speed optimizations and better RAM management | Further refined app efficiency and power-saving |