Google Decides To Shutdown Android Things, An OS That Never Took Off

Following its decision to shut down Android Things, Google has effectively put an end to its plans for a specific version of Android OS scheduled for release in 2022. Although the operating system had not yet launched, its discontinuation is another addition to Google’s growing list of discontinued projects. To learn more about this development, read on for an in-depth understanding of the subject.

What is Android Things?

Android Things is meant to power all smart devices and IoT gadgets. Announced in 2016, it can run on products such as smart thermostats, connected speakers, routers,  security cameras, and much more. The concept is, with Android Things, it will be simple for companies to begin shipping IoT hardware. It is just because they will use the same Android developer tools they already know.

Simply put, it’s a stripped-down version of Android that works on just about any internet-connected device.

However, the IoT Application Development agency stated, Google announced in 2019, that is, Android Things will exclusively begin to focus on smart speakers and smart screens. That’s much narrower than all Internet of Things devices, which Google visualized from the start.

Plus, Google recently started touting Google Assistant over Android Things for smart devices. In January, Google announced Google Assistant Connect, a way to add the Assistant to all kinds of devices, from electronic readers to devices.

News has been circulating that Google is shutting down its Android Things operating system in 2020. The OS was introduced by Google in 2016 as a simple platform for use in various smart devices. However, it was never incorporated into Google’s hardware products. Last year, the company announced its decision to focus more on displays and smart speakers. 

In the latest turn of events, non-commercial use of the Android Things OS is expected to come to a halt early next year. As a result, the Android Things developer console will not accept development of new projects starting from January 5, 2021. Despite this change, developers with existing projects can still use the Android Things Console to deliver OTA updates and create images for their projects until January 5, 2022.

As Google shuts down its Android Things platform, it’s clear that there is an increasing demand for creating innovative new smart devices. Businesses & entrepreneurs looking to create exciting new pieces of technology should consider to hire iOS app developers to help bring their concepts to life. With a wealth of experience and expertise in developing apps for iOS devices, these professionals can help transform your ideas into reality.

After that date, the console will close permanently for non-commercial use and all data will be  completely deleted from projects forever. Although Android Things is still being used on smart displays and speakers from third-party manufacturers. This is, therefore, another disappointing development in the life cycle of what was once touted as a robust platform that would allow Internet of Things devices to be created and maintained in large numbers.

More to Know: Google’s Project Zero For the Sophisticated Windows & the Android Hacking Operation

What Else Should You Know?

Don’t think of Android Things as Android or Wear OS, which you see running on your phone or watch. Android Things is an OS that runs in the background but is not visible. As per an Android app development company, it allows smart devices to handle their own tasks rather than letting the server do the processing. Being able to perform more complex tasks, it is ideal for complex smart devices such as printers and keys, rather than basic power outlets.

Google’s communication system, Weave, has been launched with Brillo & is set to facilitate integration between Android Things devices and Android & iOS devices. The system provides top-notch connectivity & allows Android Things to operate with Google Assistant & access its functionalities. This development could be of interest to any iOS app development company looking to explore the IoT market.

Final Words

Google launched its first SDK preview of Android Things in 2016, with an aim to generate IoT innovation. By May 2018, Google announced the official release of Android Things 1.0, thereby marking an impressive milestone in the evolution of IoT devices. 

However, to everyone’s surprise, Google recently decided to shut down Android Things, citing the limited market appeal for such devices. As experts in IoT technology, Zazz has analyzed & explored the nuances of Google’s decision & we are here to provide valuable insights to our clients. We have a dedicated team of developers, designers & researchers who are always at the forefront of the latest tech trends. Feel free to contact us for more information on this intriguing development.

zazz-io

Zazz has since been committed to facilitating services that go beyond excellence. We create apps to meet the needs of an evolving digital landscape. We are a leading mobile app development company . We design & develop web & mobile apps that drive today's businesses. Backed by research and development, Zazz uses technology, software, mobile, and customer service to create new revenue-generating opportunities. So contact Zazz to see your dream idea as the next big thing. We Offer Top Services iOS App Development , Android Application Development Services, React development , Flutter development , IoT Development , AR / VR development , Digital Marketing Services - SEO , SMO , PPC , Ecommerce App Development, cloud app development, front end development, education app development services, Mean Stack Web Development, Content Marketing, etc.