Some Android apps will soon update even while still in use

A new Android API will allow Android users to keep using an app even while it is being updated. The In-app Updates API is being tested with Android's early access partners, and will soon be distributed to all developers. The latter will have two different options to choose from. One is a full-screen update where the app user is prevented from using the app until the update has been completed.

The second option is a flexible update that allows the user to continue using the app while the update continues in progress. The Android Developers blog says that the "update flow" can be customized to feel like part of the app (see GIF at the top of this article). An API (application programming interface) provides developers with all of the tools and building blocks needed to help them create applications.

The latest Android Developers blog celebrates ten-years of Android and includes the introduction of the just announced support for foldable displays. There is no specific date mentioned by Google as to when we will see the API in use on Android apps.