Android P steps up AI with iPhone X feel

MANILA - Google said a beta version of its latest Android software will be available for download starting Wednesday, with deeper artificial intelligence integration and navigation gestures that are similar to the iPhone X.

A swipe from the bottom of the screen will call up the app window switcher, now arranged horizontally. The dock is also clearly distinguished from the rest of the home screen with an opaque background.

The square recent apps button at the bottom right corner was removed and what's left are the triangular back button and a pill-shaped home button which can also be used to browse recent apps, which Google calls Overview.

Google said this new revamped interface was meant to make navigating tall screens easier.

"With Android P, we put a special emphasis on simplicity. The look and feel of Android is more approachable with a brand new system navigation," Google said on its website.

From Overview, another swipe up from the bottom of the screen will bring up the app drawer that is familiar to the estimated 2 billion Android users worldwide.

#AndroidP makes your phone easier to use. Enjoy a new system navigation, easy volume controls and much more. #io18 pic.twitter.com/aa0o5c6uVM

— Android (@Android) May 8, 2018

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The new navigation gestures are similar to the version of iOS on the iPhone X. With the removal of the round home button that also doubles as a fingerprint scanner, users swiped from the bottom to browse through recent apps.

Aside from Google's own Pixel phones, Android P beta will also be available on the Sony Xperia XZ2, Xiaomi Mi Mix 2S, Nokia 7 Plus, Oppo R15 Pro, Vivo X21, Essential PH‑1 and the OnePlus 6, which will be unveiled next week.

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#AndroidP has AI at its core. With features like app actions, your device suggests what to do next. #io18 pic.twitter.com/gqde9VLdqu

— Android (@Android) May 8, 2018

Google also touted more powerful artificial intelligence features on Android P, including going straight to features of a certain app from search.

Searching for the ride-sharing app Lyft, for example, will provide a link to book a ride home, when the search is done at the end of the work day.

Plugging in a set of headphones will open music apps such as Spotify, Google said.

Users can also track their smartphone usage to help manage technology stress, the company said.

The company has not revealed the desert-themed name for Android P, which is expected before the end of the year, alongside the third generation of Pixel phones.