Google releases Android 2.0 SDK

Google Android logo

Google has released an updated software development kit (SDK) to allow developers to start building on the foundation of the soon-to-be released next-generation version of its Android operating system.

Previously code-named Eclair, the SDK will enable developers to access the second full version of Android and the technological enhancements it offers. Android 2.0 brings with it new APIs and technologies that deliver better account and contact management in addition to new syncing features.

It is likely to prove attractive to business users thanks to support for multiple email accounts, a one-click contacts widget, tweaked camera features and enhanced virtual key and touch support.

"Over the next few months, we expect to see more and more Android devices being released," Xavier Ducrohet, Android SDK technical lead, said on the company's developer blog.

"These devices will be running Android 1.5, 1.6, or 2.0. We are also planning a minor version update of Android 2.0 towards the end of the year, and that will be the last update for 2009."

The video below showcases the new features of Android 2.0, which will arrive on handsets from next month.

Maggie Holland

Maggie has been a journalist since 1999, starting her career as an editorial assistant on then-weekly magazine Computing, before working her way up to senior reporter level. In 2006, just weeks before ITPro was launched, Maggie joined Dennis Publishing as a reporter. Having worked her way up to editor of ITPro, she was appointed group editor of CloudPro and ITPro in April 2012. She became the editorial director and took responsibility for ChannelPro, in 2016.

Her areas of particular interest, aside from cloud, include management and C-level issues, the business value of technology, green and environmental issues and careers to name but a few.