Android 4.4 KitKat Release Date Coming: Leak Suggests Layout And Efficiency Revamp For Location Services

The Android 4.4 KitKat leaks continue to trickle in, and if true, they have given us a fairly detailed look into the next Android operating system from Google. The most recent leak references possible updates to the location settings in Android 4.4.

Android Police has shared screenshots of the updated location settings, now just called “Location.” While there appears to be little updating other than a revamp of the settings layout, the change is notable.

As said, the settings once called “Location access” in Android 4.3 is now just called Location, and the Location toggle has been moved higher on the screen. In Android 4.3 Location access included who options: GPS Satellites and Wi-Fi & mobile network location. Now there is one “Mode” under which three options are listed: High accuracy (GPS, Wi-Fi, and mobile network), Battery saving (Wi-Fi and mobile networks), and Device sensors only (GPS).

Notably, the new locations layout functions essentially the same as the old; however, improved efficiency can be noted in the new layout -- turning the Location toggle off will now shut down the entire location services, where before the toggle and access options had to be turned on and off separately. Many consider this may aid with battery draining issues that often arise with using location services.

In addition, the new layout gives more of an explanation of how the Location feature works. Common users would have a choice between high accuracy, battery saving and device sensors and can select and option according to their needs.

Of course as of now this leak cannot be confirmed, but it appears damning at the least. Android Police note the improvement to Location APIs, which Google discussed at its I/O conference in May, alluded to the implication of Location access that may be coming into fruition now.

Now that we are well into October fans and pundits alike are anxious to see if the month will actually bring us an Android 4.4 and Nexus 5 unveiling. Recent reports suggest that the operating system and device will launch on Oct. 15, which is just days away. However, we note that Google sent out press invitations for its last event “Breakfast with Sundar Pichai” where the 2013 Nexus 7 and Android 4.3 Jelly Bean were unveiled, a week before the event took place. It is likely that any future events would have a similar announcement spaced accordingly prior to the event.

Do you think the possible improvements to Locations access in Android 4.4 KitKat are good or bad? Let us know in the comments below.

Follow me on Twitter @FionnaatIBT.