See ya later, Android Lollipop. Back in May, Google announced Android Marshmallow — its newest Android mobile operating system — at the annual Google I/O developer conference, and many users can finally start downloading the software. If you're a Nexus 5, 6, 7, or 9 owner, you can download the update [1] already. However, for users with different phone models and carriers, the update will come in stages. HTC promises that select phones [2] will have it by the time 2015 ends, Motorola has no set date [3], Sony only listed what models will get it but no date [4], and T-Mobile has posted which devices [5] can get it right now.

The update was touted at the Google I/O as the "most polished Android release to date." Here's why:

• Better app permissions system: Users now have greater control over how much permission to give third-party apps. For instance, it has simplified which controls to allow access to, such as location, camera, and microphone. Apps will ask for permission to access the things the first time you try to use the feature instead of when you install the app. Also, users will no longer have to reapprove permissions during app updates.
• Better web experience: Now when you're transitioning from an app to a web link, it will open the link in a Chrome browser within the app for a smoother transition. Also, it's now easier to click on links within different apps without getting the "disambig dialog" prompt.
• Android Pay: Pay for things using your phone! This feature uses NFC and a host card emulation so that you can pay for something simply by unlocking your phone — there's no need to open a separate app. It's also secure because it uses a virtual account number without showing the store your credit card number. It works with AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile carriers to start and across 7,000 vendors including Macy's and McDonald's. It also works for within-app purchases.
• Fingerprint sensor: The new fingerprint reader will let you authorize those Android Pay transactions and process payments with a fingerprint scan.
• Better battery life: Get used to a new feature called "doze," which uses motion detection to tell if your device hasn't moved in a while (i.e. it's on your side table when you're sleeping). This puts apps and other background features on a deeper sleep state, preserving battery so that it lasts up to two times longer than it would have otherwise.
• USB Type: USB Type-C will let you use your phone to charge other devices and other services like file transfers.



• Better word selection: Word selection detection has improved, and copy and paste will no longer be buggy.
• Friend detection: The new software knows which friends you share with the most and makes those contacts readily available with a click.



• Fixed volume controls: There's now a drop-down so you can control individual levels and silence your devices easily.