Alongside the LG Nexus 4 that was announced earlier today, Google is also introducing its Android 4.2, which still carries the Jelly Bean moniker. The new version of the open source OS brings some new improvements to the platform according to the Google Blog.
Some of the most notable enhancements are those made to Google Now, enhancements that are also available to Android 4.1 Jelly Bean users with a new update available in the Play Store for Google’s Search app. Flight information, restaurant reservations, hotel confirmations and shipping details have been included. You’ll get reminders when you book a table at a restaurant and you’ll see cards for nearby attractions, interesting photo spots, movie times at nearby theaters or concerts by your favorite artist.
Android 4.2 also introduces Photo Sphere, which lets you capture 360-degree experiences that you can share on Google+ or Google Maps.
Along with Photo Sphere is the introduction of Gesture Typing, which allows you to glide your fingers over the letters you want on the keyboard like Swype.
For Android 4.1+ (Jelly Bean), Google Search is faster plus:
– Google Now works with Gmail (English only)
– Flights
– Restaurant reservations
– Hotel confirmations
– Events
– Packages
– New Now cards: nearby attractions & photo spots, movies opening in theaters, concerts & more
– New voice actions: launch apps, schedule meetings & check when your next appointment is
Google Now puts you in control: at any time, adjust or turn off individual Now cards within Settings.