Google has released a platform preview for Android 3.0 (codenamed Honeycomb) and an updated set of SDK tools. The new version includes a refined UI framework for large-screen devices plus various tablet-centric tweaks, as well as a new animation framework, support HTTP Live Streaming, multi-core processors, high-quality 2D and 3D graphics, Bluetooth A2DP, and HSP. There's also encrypted storage, password expiration, and e-mail.
The new Honeycomb UI stretches the system bar at the bottom of larger displays and gives global status info. A top action bar now allows you to manage your apps. The browser has received multiple tab support, support for Chrome bookmark syncing, multitouch support for JavaScript and plugins, and automatic-sign-on for Google websites.
Remember, this is just the software side of the puzzle. The first Android 3.0 device, the Motorola Xoom, will be launching next month. Throughout this year, many more are expected to ship.
Earlier this month, Google released a promotional video for Android 3.0. Now developers are finally able to play with what they saw. Even users can go see what's new over on the "Android 3.0 Platform Highlights" webpage at Android Developers.