android 71 nougat vs android 60 marshmallow A Journey Through Androids Evolution.

Right, let’s dive headfirst into the world of mobile operating systems with android 71 nougat vs android 60 marshmallow. Imagine a time when the digital landscape was a bit different, where Marshmallow, the sweet and gooey treat of Android, was the reigning champion. It brought with it a fresh perspective, a promise of efficiency and elegance. But then, along came Nougat, a dish of technological prowess, arriving on the scene with a mission: to refine, enhance, and revolutionize the way we interact with our digital lives.

This isn’t just a comparison; it’s a journey, a look at how Android has grown, learned, and adapted to become the powerhouse it is today. We’re talking about the core of what makes your phone tick, the software that bridges the gap between you and the digital realm. Whether you’re a seasoned tech enthusiast or someone simply looking to understand the tech that powers your daily life, this comparison is for you.

So, buckle up, because we’re about to explore the heart of Android, from the smooth transitions of Nougat to the foundational elegance of Marshmallow.

Android 6.0 Marshmallow, a pivotal release, introduced features that have become staples in the Android ecosystem. It focused on refined user experience and power efficiency, which improved battery life with the introduction of Doze mode, a clever way to conserve energy when the device is idle. It also brought in more granular control over app permissions, giving users more say over what their apps could access.

On the other hand, Android 7.1 Nougat arrived with a flurry of upgrades, promising a faster, more fluid experience. Nougat brought the multi-window functionality to the forefront, letting users truly multitask with ease. The notification system got a makeover, becoming more interactive and informative. And under the hood, improvements in the Android Runtime (ART) meant apps would launch faster and run smoother.

We’ll delve into the nuances of each, comparing the user interfaces, performance, and functionality, all while considering the security enhancements that helped keep your data safe. Prepare to get to know the two versions of Android that have shaped the smartphones we love today.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Hello there, tech enthusiasts! We’re diving headfirst into a comparison of two Android titans: Nougat (7.1) and Marshmallow (6.0). This isn’t just a trip down memory lane; it’s a look at how Android evolved, impacting how we use our phones daily. Prepare for a deep dive!

Android 7.1 Nougat: A Leap Forward

Android 7.1 Nougat, released in late 2016, represented a significant step forward from its predecessors. It wasn’t just an incremental update; it brought a host of improvements designed to enhance the user experience and lay the groundwork for future advancements.Here’s what made Nougat a big deal:

Performance Optimization: Nougat introduced Project Svelte, aimed at optimizing Android for lower-end devices. This resulted in smoother performance and better battery life, even on older hardware. It was a game-changer for those of us clinging to older phones.
Multi-Window Mode: Finally, true multi-window functionality arrived! Users could run two apps side-by-side, boosting productivity and multitasking capabilities. Imagine watching a video while simultaneously responding to emails – a feature that felt revolutionary at the time.
Improved Notifications: Notifications got a serious upgrade. Users could now reply directly from the notification shade, group notifications by app, and customize notification settings with greater granularity.
Doze Mode Enhancements: Doze mode, introduced in Marshmallow, was refined in Nougat. It became even more aggressive in conserving battery life when the device was idle, resulting in noticeably longer standby times.
VR Mode Support: Nougat included native support for virtual reality (VR) through the Daydream platform. This opened up new possibilities for mobile VR experiences.

Android 6.0 Marshmallow: Setting the Stage

Released in 2015, Android 6.0 Marshmallow served as a crucial foundation. It refined the user interface, improved performance, and introduced several key features that continue to influence Android today. Marshmallow was all about making Android more polished, efficient, and user-friendly.Here are some of the key features of Marshmallow:

App Permissions: Marshmallow introduced a new app permissions model. Instead of granting all permissions at installation, users could now grant or deny permissions on a per-app basis, providing greater control over their privacy.
Doze Mode: Doze mode was a significant battery-saving feature. It put the device into a deep sleep state when idle, dramatically reducing battery drain.
Google Now on Tap: Google Now on Tap allowed users to get contextual information by long-pressing the home button. It analyzed the content on the screen and provided relevant information and actions.
Improved RAM Management: Marshmallow improved RAM management, leading to better multitasking and overall system performance.
Adoptable Storage: Users could format external storage (like an SD card) as internal storage, expanding the available space for apps and data.

Target Audience

This comparison is aimed at a diverse group.

Users Upgrading from Older Devices: Individuals still using devices running older Android versions (like KitKat or Lollipop) will gain valuable insights into the improvements and new features introduced in both Marshmallow and Nougat.
Potential Smartphone Buyers: Those considering purchasing a new or used phone might find this comparison useful for understanding the differences between these two Android versions, allowing them to make informed decisions.
Android Enthusiasts: Tech enthusiasts interested in the evolution of the Android operating system will appreciate a detailed analysis of the key features and advancements introduced in each version.

User Interface and Design: Android 71 Nougat Vs Android 60 Marshmallow

Android 7.1 Nougat and Android 6.0 Marshmallow, representing pivotal advancements in the Android operating system, significantly refined the user experience through thoughtful enhancements to the user interface and design. These iterations prioritized both aesthetic appeal and functional efficiency, paving the way for a more intuitive and visually engaging mobile experience. The following sections will delve into the specific alterations and improvements implemented in Nougat, contrasting them with the foundational design principles of Marshmallow.

Notification Panels, Quick Settings, and Overall Aesthetics

The evolution of Android’s user interface is most apparent in the redesigned notification panels, quick settings, and overall visual aesthetics. Marshmallow established a clean, functional design language, while Nougat built upon this foundation, introducing refinements that improved usability and visual appeal.The notification panel in Marshmallow featured a card-based design, displaying notifications with a simple, uncluttered layout. Quick settings were accessible via a two-finger swipe down from the top of the screen, providing quick access to frequently used toggles like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and screen brightness.

The color palette was generally consistent, with a focus on a flat design aesthetic.Nougat’s notification panel incorporated several improvements. Notifications were grouped by app, offering a more organized and manageable display. Users could directly reply to messages from within the notification panel, a significant time-saving feature. The quick settings panel was redesigned, allowing users to customize the arrangement of toggles and adding new options.

The overall aesthetic was slightly refined, with a more polished look and feel. The introduction of round icons and subtle animations contributed to a more modern and engaging visual experience. The transition between different screens and settings felt smoother, contributing to a more cohesive user experience.

The notification panel in Nougat provides a more streamlined and efficient way to manage alerts, while quick settings offer increased customization options.

Key UI Differences

A clear understanding of the core differences between Android 6.0 Marshmallow and Android 7.1 Nougat can be achieved by examining a table summarizing the evolution of key UI elements. This table provides a concise overview of the visual and functional changes implemented.

Feature	Android 6.0	Android 7.1
Notification Panel	Card-based design; basic grouping.	Grouped notifications by app; direct reply functionality; improved interaction.
Quick Settings	Basic toggles (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.); two-finger swipe access.	Customizable toggle arrangement; expanded quick settings options; more intuitive controls.
App Icon Design	Flat, square icons.	Round icons; adaptive icon support.
Settings Menu	Simple, list-based layout.	Refined layout with suggested settings; improved search functionality.
Multitasking	Basic app switching.	Improved multitasking with multi-window support.

Multi-Window Functionality Improvements

Multi-window functionality, introduced in a basic form in Marshmallow, was significantly enhanced in Nougat. This feature allows users to run two apps side-by-side on the same screen, increasing productivity and multitasking efficiency.In Marshmallow, multi-window support was limited, often requiring specific hardware support or modifications. Its implementation was inconsistent across different devices.Nougat provided native multi-window support, making it accessible on a wider range of devices.

Users could easily activate split-screen mode by long-pressing the recent apps button or, in some cases, by dragging an app to the top or bottom of the screen. This made multitasking a seamless experience, enabling users to simultaneously watch videos while browsing the web or taking notes while reading an article. The ability to resize the windows, further enhanced the utility of this feature, providing a flexible and adaptable multitasking environment.

The enhancements in multi-window support made Android a more versatile and user-friendly platform, especially for users who frequently switch between multiple applications.

Performance and Speed

Android 71 nougat vs android 60 marshmallow

Android 7.1 Nougat arrived with a mission: to make your phone feelfaster*. It was all about squeezing every last drop of performance from your hardware, while also extending the life of your battery. Marshmallow was no slouch, but Nougat aimed to take things to the next level. Let’s dive into how Google achieved this.

App Launch Times and System Responsiveness

One of the most noticeable improvements in Nougat was the reduction in app launch times. You know the feeling – you tap an icon, and you’re just waiting…and waiting. Nougat aimed to banish that feeling. The operating system was optimized to prioritize app loading, so your most frequently used apps would pop open almost instantly. This involved several behind-the-scenes tweaks.

JIT Compiler Improvements: Nougat introduced a new Just-In-Time (JIT) compiler. This compiler translated code into machine language on the fly, optimizing performance and significantly speeding up app launch times. Marshmallow used a more traditional Ahead-of-Time (AOT) compiler, which wasn’t as nimble.
Background Optimization: Nougat was smarter about how it handled background processes. It would intelligently manage resource allocation, ensuring that apps that were in the foreground got the lion’s share of the processing power. This contributed to a more responsive overall experience.
System UI Refinements: The system UI itself received some attention. Animations were smoother, and transitions between screens felt more fluid. This wasn’t just about aesthetics; it contributed to the perception of speed and responsiveness.

The result? A snappier experience. Imagine the difference: In Marshmallow, launching a social media app might take a couple of seconds. In Nougat, it felt like it launched in a heartbeat. This improvement was especially noticeable on devices with less powerful processors, where every millisecond of optimization made a difference.

Battery Life Optimizations

Battery life is the lifeblood of any mobile device. Nougat brought some significant improvements in this area, building upon the foundations laid by Marshmallow. The goal was simple: make your phone last longer on a single charge.

Doze Mode Evolution: Marshmallow introduced Doze mode, which put the device into a deep sleep state when it wasn’t in use, minimizing background activity and conserving power. Nougat refined this feature. It expanded Doze to be more aggressive, kicking in even when the phone was in your pocket or bag. This meant less battery drain when your phone was idle.
Project Svelte: Project Svelte was an initiative aimed at optimizing Android for lower-end devices and improving battery life across the board. Nougat benefited from these optimizations, reducing the amount of power consumed by the operating system itself.
Background Process Limits: Nougat placed stricter limits on how apps could run in the background. This prevented rogue apps from draining your battery without your knowledge. It wasn’t about shutting down apps entirely; it was about managing them more efficiently.

These improvements translated into real-world gains. While battery life varied depending on the device and usage patterns, many users reported noticeable improvements, with some seeing an extra hour or two of screen-on time compared to Marshmallow.

Impact on User Experience

These performance changes had a profound impact on how people used their phones.

Gaming: Faster app launch times and improved system responsiveness meant a smoother gaming experience. Games loaded faster, and frame rates were generally more stable. This made mobile gaming more enjoyable.
Multitasking: The improved background process management and overall responsiveness made multitasking a breeze. Switching between apps felt faster, and the phone was less likely to stutter or lag when juggling multiple tasks.
Everyday Use: The cumulative effect of all these improvements was a more pleasant everyday experience. From checking emails to browsing the web to making calls, everything felt quicker and more fluid. The phone became a more reliable and enjoyable tool.

Consider the scenario of a busy professional. They rely on their phone for everything: email, calendar, calls, and presentations. In Marshmallow, switching between apps might cause a slight delay, interrupting their workflow. In Nougat, the experience was seamless, allowing them to stay productive without interruption. The difference was significant.

Features and Functionality

Let’s dive into the fascinating world of Android, comparing the features that made Nougat a significant step forward from Marshmallow. We’ll explore the advancements in functionality that shaped the user experience, examining both the innovations and the foundational elements.

Android 7.1 Nougat’s New Features, Android 71 nougat vs android 60 marshmallow

Android 7.1 Nougat brought a wave of enhancements designed to streamline how users interact with their devices. This version refined existing functionalities and introduced exciting new capabilities, offering a more intuitive and efficient mobile experience.* App Shortcuts: This feature, similar to 3D Touch on iOS, allows users to access key actions within an app directly from the home screen by long-pressing an app icon.

For example, long-pressing the phone app could offer shortcuts to call a specific contact or access voicemail. This dramatically reduces the number of steps required to perform common tasks.* Improved Notification System: Nougat revamped the notification system with a focus on organization and interaction. Users can now bundle notifications from the same app, respond directly from the notification shade (for supported apps), and fine-tune notification settings for individual apps with greater precision.

This resulted in a cleaner and more manageable notification experience.* Image Keyboard Support: The addition of image keyboard support enabled users to send GIFs and stickers directly from the keyboard within compatible apps. This enriched communication and added a layer of fun to messaging.* Circular App Icons: The introduction of circular app icons provided a consistent visual aesthetic across the operating system.

This gave the user interface a more polished and modern look.* Night Mode (Limited Implementation): Although not fully fleshed out, Nougat started to explore a system-wide night mode, reducing eye strain in low-light environments. This feature would later be refined in subsequent Android versions.* VR Mode: Nougat included built-in support for virtual reality (VR) experiences, paving the way for the integration of Google’s Daydream VR platform.

This opened up new possibilities for immersive content consumption.

Android 6.0 Marshmallow Features

Marshmallow established a solid foundation for Android’s modern features. It addressed battery life concerns, improved security, and refined the user experience. The following list details the key features and their functions:The following features were central to Marshmallow’s appeal:* Doze Mode: This power-saving feature significantly extended battery life by putting the device into a deep sleep state when it’s stationary and not in use.

Doze Mode minimized background activity and network usage, conserving power effectively.* App Permissions: Marshmallow introduced a more granular app permissions system. Users could now grant or deny individual permissions to apps, such as access to the camera, microphone, or location services. This provided greater control over data privacy.* Google Now on Tap: By long-pressing the home button, users could activate Google Now on Tap.

This feature analyzed the content on the screen and provided contextual information and relevant actions. For example, if you were reading about a restaurant, Now on Tap could offer directions or show reviews.* Adoptable Storage: This feature allowed users to format external storage (like an SD card) as internal storage. This increased the device’s storage capacity and enabled apps to be installed on the external storage.* Android Pay: Marshmallow introduced Android Pay (later renamed Google Pay), a mobile payment system that allowed users to make contactless payments at participating retailers.* Direct Share: This feature streamlined the sharing process by allowing users to share content directly with specific contacts or apps, bypassing the standard share menu.

Security Enhancements: A Comparative Look

Security is paramount, and both Marshmallow and Nougat introduced significant improvements. Examining the changes reveals the evolution of Android’s defenses against evolving threats.In Android 6.0 Marshmallow, the app permissions model provided a critical layer of security by allowing users to control what data apps could access. This was a substantial improvement over previous versions, where apps were granted all necessary permissions at installation.

This shift empowered users to manage their privacy more effectively. Marshmallow also included improved encryption capabilities, enhancing data protection.Android 7.1 Nougat built upon these foundations, adding several enhancements.* Direct Boot: Nougat introduced Direct Boot, allowing devices to boot up faster and providing limited access to encrypted storage before the user unlocks the device. This meant that essential services, such as alarms and accessibility features, could function even before the user entered their credentials, enhancing usability.* File-Based Encryption: Nougat adopted file-based encryption, allowing for more granular control over data encryption.

This meant that individual files could be encrypted, rather than the entire device, offering improved security and performance.* Verified Boot: The implementation of verified boot ensured that the operating system’s integrity was maintained. The system checks the software at boot-up to ensure that it hasn’t been tampered with, protecting against malicious modifications.* Security Patch Updates: Both versions received regular security updates from Google to address vulnerabilities and keep devices protected against emerging threats.The advancements in security between Marshmallow and Nougat demonstrate Google’s ongoing commitment to user safety.

Each iteration reflects a deeper understanding of security challenges and a proactive approach to protecting Android users.

Security and Privacy

In the ever-evolving landscape of mobile technology, safeguarding user data and maintaining privacy are paramount concerns. Android, being the dominant mobile operating system, has consistently worked on enhancing its security features. This section delves into the security and privacy aspects of Android 7.1 Nougat compared to its predecessor, Android 6.0 Marshmallow, highlighting key improvements and changes.

App Permissions Handling

App permissions are the cornerstone of Android’s security model, controlling what resources an application can access on a user’s device. The handling of these permissions underwent significant changes between Marshmallow and Nougat. These changes aimed to give users more control and transparency over the data accessed by their installed applications.In Android 6.0 Marshmallow, the permission model was revamped, introducing a runtime permission system.

This meant that apps would request permissions at the time they needed them, rather than all at once during installation. This provided users with greater control. For example, if an app needed access to the camera, it would only ask for permission when the user tried to take a picture, not during installation. This was a substantial improvement over the previous system, which granted all permissions upfront.Android 7.1 Nougat built upon this foundation, refining the permission model further.

The user interface for managing permissions was improved, making it easier to understand and control app access. Users could more easily review and revoke permissions granted to individual apps. Nougat also introduced the concept of “default permissions,” which were automatically granted to system apps, streamlining the user experience while maintaining security. Furthermore, developers were encouraged to adopt best practices for handling permissions, further enhancing the security posture of the platform.The shift towards a more granular and user-centric permission model represented a significant step forward in Android’s commitment to user privacy.

Key Security Differences

The transition from Android 6.0 Marshmallow to Android 7.1 Nougat brought several notable enhancements to the security and privacy landscape. These improvements, aimed at bolstering user data protection, included refinements in encryption, the implementation of new security features, and a more streamlined permission management system. Below is a table highlighting the key security differences between the two operating systems:

Feature	Android 6.0	Android 7.1	Notes
Encryption	Full-disk encryption was available but not enforced by default.	Full-disk encryption was enforced by default, enhancing data protection.	Enforcement of full-disk encryption made it more difficult for unauthorized parties to access user data, even if the device was physically compromised.
Verified Boot	Basic verification of system files.	More robust Verified Boot process, ensuring system integrity.	Verified Boot protects against malicious software by ensuring that the operating system has not been tampered with. It verifies the integrity of the system during the boot process.
Direct Boot	Not available.	Introduced Direct Boot, allowing limited app functionality before device unlock.	Direct Boot allows apps like messaging apps to receive notifications and handle calls even before the user unlocks the device, offering a better user experience while maintaining security. Data is stored in encrypted storage accessible after device unlock.
Network Security	Relied on existing network security protocols.	Added support for more secure network protocols and enhanced security for network connections.	Enhancements in network security improved the protection of data transmitted over networks, mitigating the risk of eavesdropping and man-in-the-middle attacks.
App Permission Management	Runtime permissions introduced; users granted permissions when needed.	Refined runtime permission management, with improved UI and default permissions.	The improved UI and default permissions made it easier for users to understand and control app permissions, enhancing user privacy.
Security Patch Updates	Security updates were released periodically.	Improved security update delivery, with faster and more frequent updates.	Faster and more frequent security updates helped address vulnerabilities more quickly, protecting users from the latest threats. For example, if a vulnerability like the Stagefright bug (which could allow attackers to remotely execute code on a device) was discovered, the updated security patch could be distributed more rapidly.

Compatibility and Updates

Ah, the grand dance of software versions! Choosing between Android 7.1 Nougat and Android 6.0 Marshmallow isn’t just about the features; it’s about whether your trusty phone can evenparticipate* in the fun. Compatibility and updates are the lifeblood of any operating system, ensuring your device stays relevant and secure. Let’s dive into how these two Android versions handled this crucial aspect of the mobile experience.

Device Compatibility for Android 7.1 Nougat and Android 6.0 Marshmallow

The first hurdle is, naturally, whether your phone or tablet is eveninvited* to the party. Compatibility depended heavily on the device manufacturer and the hardware capabilities. Marshmallow, being the slightly older guest, was more widely adopted, but Nougat brought some new requirements that left some older devices behind.

Android 6.0 Marshmallow: This version enjoyed a broader rollout. Many flagship phones and tablets from 2015 and 2016 received the Marshmallow update. Popular examples include the Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge, the HTC One M9, the LG G4, and the Nexus 5X and 6P. Generally, if your device was considered “high-end” during that period, chances were good it saw a Marshmallow upgrade.
Android 7.1 Nougat: While Marshmallow was generous, Nougat was a bit more selective. It targeted newer devices and those with the processing power to handle its enhanced features. Devices like the Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge, the Google Pixel and Pixel XL, the HTC 10, and the LG G5 were among the first to receive the update. Devices released in 2016 and 2017 were the primary focus.

The Update Process: OTA and Manual Flashing

Getting the latest Android version wasn’t always a smooth ride. The update process itself varied, and understanding the options available was key to keeping your device up-to-date.

Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates: This was the preferred and easiest method. Your device would receive a notification when an update was available. You’d simply download it over Wi-Fi (recommended!) and install it. This process was straightforward and usually didn’t require any technical expertise.
Manual Flashing: For the adventurous, or those who wanted the update
-now*, manual flashing was an option. This involved downloading the firmware from the manufacturer’s website or a third-party source, and then using a special tool (like fastboot or Odin) to install it on your device. This method was more complex, carried a risk of bricking your device if done incorrectly, and often voided the warranty.

Manual flashing should only be attempted by users with a good understanding of the process and the risks involved. Always back up your data before attempting to flash a new ROM.

Lifecycle and Support Period

No operating system lives forever. Knowing how long each version would receive updates was essential for long-term device usability and security.

Android 6.0 Marshmallow: Released in late 2015, Marshmallow received security updates and bug fixes for approximately two to three years, depending on the device manufacturer. While the initial rollout was wide, support eventually tapered off as newer versions of Android emerged.
Android 7.1 Nougat: Launching in 2016, Nougat enjoyed a similar support lifespan. Security patches and minor updates were provided for a couple of years after its initial release. This timeframe allowed manufacturers to focus on newer Android versions and allocate resources efficiently.

System Architecture Comparison

Let’s dive into the core of these Android versions, taking a look under the hood. Understanding the system architecture is crucial for grasping how Android 6.0 Marshmallow and 7.1 Nougat function, and how they differ fundamentally. This architectural understanding explains the performance, security, and feature improvements.

Android 6.0 Marshmallow Architecture

The architecture of Android 6.0 Marshmallow, while a significant step forward, maintained a familiar structure. It was designed to optimize performance, battery life, and security.The following is a breakdown of the key components of the Marshmallow architecture:

Linux Kernel: This forms the bedrock of the operating system, providing the foundation for hardware abstraction and resource management. It handles low-level tasks, such as memory management, process scheduling, and device drivers.
Hardware Abstraction Layer (HAL): The HAL acts as a translator between the Android framework and the hardware. It allows Android to communicate with different hardware components (like the camera, GPS, and Bluetooth) without requiring specific drivers for each device. This layer is crucial for device manufacturers to customize their devices while maintaining compatibility with the Android OS.
Android Runtime (ART): Marshmallow introduced the ART as the default runtime environment. ART compiles apps into native machine code during installation (Ahead-of-Time compilation or AOT), improving performance and reducing battery drain compared to the previous Dalvik Virtual Machine.
Libraries: These provide essential functionalities, including graphics rendering (OpenGL), web browsing (WebKit), and media playback (Stagefright). They are written in C/C++ and are accessible to the Android framework.
Android Framework: This is the application layer that developers interact with. It provides high-level services like the Activity Manager, Window Manager, and Content Providers. The framework also includes the UI toolkit, making it easier for developers to create user interfaces.
System Apps: These are pre-installed applications that provide core functionalities like the dialer, contacts, settings, and camera. They leverage the Android framework to interact with the underlying system.

Imagine the Android system as a meticulously crafted orchestra. The Linux kernel is the conductor, managing all the instruments (hardware) and ensuring they play in harmony. The HAL is the translator, ensuring that each instrument understands the conductor’s instructions. The ART is the rehearsal process, optimizing the performance of each musician (app) before the concert (execution). The libraries are the sheet music, providing the instructions for playing specific melodies (functions).

The Android framework is the stage, where the musicians (apps) perform for the audience (users). Finally, the system apps are the core members of the orchestra, providing essential functions for the overall performance.

Android 7.1 Nougat Architecture

Android 7.1 Nougat builds upon the foundation laid by Marshmallow, introducing significant architectural changes to enhance performance, security, and user experience. It’s a bit like upgrading the orchestra with better instruments and a more refined conductor.Here’s how Nougat’s architecture differs:

Multi-Window Support: Nougat natively supports multi-window mode, allowing users to run two apps side-by-side. This change required significant adjustments to the Window Manager and the Activity Manager to handle multiple active activities simultaneously.
Doze on the Go: While Marshmallow introduced Doze mode to conserve battery life, Nougat extended this feature with “Doze on the Go.” This allows the device to enter a low-power state even when the device is moving, further optimizing battery usage. This was implemented through changes to the power management system and the system services responsible for monitoring device activity.
Project Svelte: This project focused on optimizing Android for low-memory devices. It involved optimizing the ART and reducing memory consumption across the system, enabling better performance on entry-level smartphones.
Direct Boot: This feature allows certain system services and apps to run before the user unlocks the device. It provides faster boot times and allows for features like alarms and notifications to function immediately after a reboot.
File-Based Encryption: Nougat introduced file-based encryption (FBE), which encrypts individual files with different keys, rather than encrypting the entire partition. This allows for faster boot times and more granular control over data security.

The shift from Marshmallow to Nougat brought improvements across the board. The enhanced Doze mode provided notable battery life improvements. The introduction of file-based encryption enhanced security without sacrificing performance. Multi-window support changed the way users interacted with their devices. For example, a user could now watch a video while simultaneously responding to a message.

These changes weren’t just cosmetic; they represented a significant evolution in Android’s capabilities.

Impact on Performance and Functionality

The architectural changes between Marshmallow and Nougat directly impacted the overall performance and functionality of the operating systems. The core improvements led to a smoother and more responsive user experience.Here’s a look at the key impacts:

Faster App Launch Times: The ART improvements, combined with optimizations in the system, led to quicker app launch times in Nougat.
Improved Battery Life: Features like Doze on the Go significantly improved battery life, especially for users who frequently moved around with their devices.
Enhanced Multitasking: The introduction of multi-window support fundamentally changed how users could interact with their devices, allowing for true multitasking.
Increased Security: File-based encryption provided stronger data protection.
Better Support for Low-Memory Devices: Project Svelte helped to ensure that Android could run smoothly even on devices with limited resources.

Consider a practical example: A user running a graphically intensive game. In Marshmallow, the game might experience occasional lag or stuttering. In Nougat, with ART optimizations and performance improvements, the same game would run more smoothly. Similarly, a user who relied on their device for navigation would notice a significant improvement in battery life with Nougat’s Doze on the Go feature.

These improvements are the direct result of the architectural changes made between the two versions of Android.