video recording, faster browser

Filed under: OS Updates, Google, Open Source, AndroidAs if the G1 wasn't slick enough already, Google's latest update is packing tons of new features for both end users and developers that will make it an even stronger competitor for the iPhone.Version 1.5 introduces two key features that users were clamoring for: softkeys and accelerometer support for switching display between landscape and portrait modes. Another major introduction is the ability to record video and upload directly to YouTube. Likewise, photos can now be quickly shared via Picasa.The Webkit-based browser has been turbocharged and now features a tabbed bookmarks and history page, in-page search, and copy/paste. Enhancements for YouTube video playback have also been added as has full Bluetooth stereo support. Android's Linux kernel has been updated to version 2.6.27, and OS 1.5 also boasts many API additions for developers like secure widgets, location awareness, text prediction, and speech recognition.More details about the 1.5 update can be found on the Android SDK site.