Android 6.0 "Marshmallow" is a version of the Android mobile operating system. (Photo : Facebook / AndroidGeeks)
Sony's Xperia xMarshmallow launcher is yet to be finalized but a working version has already been ported as an APK download. The tool will magically transform Android Lollipop devices, at least on the surface, into Marshmallow or Android without going through the trouble of rooting.
In a test drive, 9to5Google installed the xMarshmallow on Moto X Pure 2015 as provided by XDA Developers and what was delivered is nothing but "light and smooth," Android experience. The report said that even as Sony is behind the launcher, users will be spared of the expected bloatware. That would mean that Motorola, Samsung or any other devices will not morph into an Xperia environment.
The Xperia concept launcher will strictly render in native Android Marshmallow setting that should convince Android fans still stuck on Lollipop to make the jump, 9to5Google assured.
"It's unique, simple, and customizable. Perhaps more importantly, it's really lightweight ... And apart from the odd bug, found performance to be really smooth," the report said.
Following install, the Xperia xMarshmallow launcher is set in Modern UI, which for users mean the lack of application drawer. So as apps downloaded all reside on the home screen, users are given the option to clean up by organizing the apps into folder.
This can be easily done in classic Android fashion - drag an app icon and place it on top of another.
The xMarshmallow feel also reminds of the Apple iOS setting in iPhone and apparently uninstalling an application can be performed the way - by pressing and holding an icon and tapping on the delete option that will pop out. But as of the last build, this feature is yet to work so getting rid of unwanted or unused apps is done the old way - accessing the Application Manager from the Settings menu.
Thankfully, pulling up the launcher settings is quick enough. Press then hold and users can start tinkering around with the tool such as "the ability to change icon size, and choose between the classic and modern home screen layouts."
The Classic UI, it should be noted, comes with the traditional app drawer.
Now to see the Sony Xperia xMarshmallow in action, watch the clip below:
