It is that time again. Google’s developer conference, Google I/O, is only a matter of days away and already there are subtle but notable Google content coming through. For instance, earlier today Google announced the launch of Spaces, a new social-based app and an aspect which is likely to be touched upon more as the week goes on. Following which, it also seems today that the Android Developers site has received an update ahead of the big event as well. Now the update is not anything too spectacular and certainly does not provide any more of an insight as to what else will be announced this week, but it is still an update and its timing is one that suggests the site is getting ready prior to the start of I/O.
In terms of the changes, much of the noticeable difference is the navigation that runs down the left hand side of the page. Before, the choices on offer were far fewer with “Design”, “Develop” and “Distribute” running along the top of the page. Interestingly, those aspects are still showing, but in addition, the page also now sports what is essentially a left-hand side pull out menu. One which repeats the same options but also adds a “Preview” tab link and a fully fledged hamburger menu. The hamburger menu does not do much besides open and close the side pull out menu, but it is worth noting that the pull out menu includes quick access links to the likes of Android, Wear, TV and Auto categories as well. Not to mention, the hamburger menu is pretty much accessible from anywhere on the site. An overall page look and design which is now unified across desktop and mobile. Which could also be an aspect which is touched upon at this year’s event and before the week is out.
Of course, there is plenty of content that is expected to emerge from this year’s event and one of the aspects which is likely to be a very big talking point is virtual reality, with numerous rumors and reports suggesting Google will announce either a new virtual reality headset, a unified VR platform for Android, or both. Not to mention, there is likely to be further updates coming through on Android in general, Android Wear, Android TV and Android Auto. So all in all, a busy week ahead for all things Android and with so much new developer material expected to be announced, this is likely the reason as to why the navigation of the Android Developers site has seen this latest update.