Part 1: Gui-iffic updates
The first things we'll look at are the updates to the user interface and standard apps that come with Honeycomb.
Launcher Refinment:
For anyone who's used Google default home application, Launcher2 from Froyo or Gingerbread you may be unaware that the new Launcher in Honeycomb is based on that same source and what you see on your XOOM, or Asus tablet is the overlay for extra large screens. Google sat down with the Honeycomb Launcher2 source and brought some improvements with the 3.1 release. The animation when opening apps is much more responsive now, as well you can now resize the widgets on your home screen. Something only previously possible in 3rd party paid home screen applications.
(note some 3rd party widgets will require a very small update to allow for this feature)
Browser Updates:
Something I've never understood about Android is the browser. I love Google Chrome on my desktop, but the Android Browser has always been lacking in compatibility and useability, however Google has stepped up to change that. The Quick Controls UI has been completely redesigned and now enables full control over open tabs, and quicker access to the browsers settings.
They've also updated the browsers support for more web standards, including several updates to the CSS renderer and added full support for embedded playback of HTML 5 content.
Early user feedback reports that the browser is much faster and more responsive when scrolling pages and zooming.
Gallery App:
Ok, this belongs in the next section as well, however the updated Honeycomb Gallery app, in conjuction with the new USB updates now supports the standard Picture Transfer Protocol. Meaning you can connect your camera to your tablet via USB and download all of your photos directly to it.
Contacts:
The Contacts app has recieved updates to the built in search function which should make it easier for you to sort through all of your friends.
Enterprise Support:
While I don't know that this will satisfy the enterprise needs of all corporate networks it's certainly a step in the right direction. Proxy's can now be configured for each access point which will automatically be used by the browser through wifi. As well encrypted storage cards are now allowed on the platform.
Part 2 - Under the Hood
In addition to the WYSIWYG features perhaps the most exciting updates are under the hood.
USB Support:
Yup, you read that right. Honeycomb now supports USB peripherals natively so you can now plug in a usb keyboard, mouse or even a joystick. I love gaming on my tablet, but using the funny onscreen joystick and buttons takes away from the overall experience, expecially when my big hands get in the way of the screen. Now I can simply connect my PS3 or Xbox360 controller via USB and enjoy. Or how about a Steering Wheel controller to enjoy your favorite Android based racing games?
All is not lost however on USB, as many input devices can also be paired using bluetooth for wireless control ,with the exception unfortunately of the PS3 and Xbox360 controllers which can only be connected via USB.
WIFI Features:
Honeycomb 3.1 adds the ability for the device to maintain it's connection to your wifi even when it's screen is off, which means it will no longer cut out while enjoying streaming music or downloading game data.
Open Accessory API:
One of the most exciting updates from a development point of view is the new Open Accessory API that Google has developed. While it doesn't really mean a lot to most of it right now, it will allow for everything from our treadmills to our lightbulbs to be controlled from the tablet using an accessory appliance.
Conclusion:
As this update has already been available in the US, I can tell you that user reviews are great. Most people feel that it's a well deserved, and needed update for the Honeycomb OS.
It's starting to look a lot less like a graphical update to Gingerbread, and more like an actual tablet based operating system. Keep an eye on your over the air updates application and be sure to apply this one as soon as you see it.
