Android 4.4, KitKat Features: Software to Come with Default SMS App

The Android 4.4, KitKat features will include a default SMS app.

Google advised SMS app developers to prepare their apps for the arrival of the software so users will be able to switch to the company's own "default SMS app."

The company did not reveal any information on the release date for Android 4.4. Google also did not mention if Hangouts will get SMS and MMS support in the new update.

The call to preparation for app developers was made to get them ready for Android 4.4 so that their messaging systems will work properly. Only one app will become the default SMS app on the software which means that this one app will be able to both send and receive SMS messages.

Other apps will be able to receive the same messages, but will lose the ability to send. The company also encouraged developers to turn off features on their apps when they are not selected as the default SMS app on the device, along with giving users a quick prompt allowing them to change to the default SMS app if it is in use on the device and is not Google's.

Two sites put up pictures of devices this month of devices said to be a Nexus 5 and Nexus 7 running Android 4.4, KitKat.

Various features for the software that have already been leaked can be seen in the new pictures including the changed Downloads app.

Tapping multiple times on the Android version reveals the Easter egg which is the word Android featured in a KitKat-styled logo. However, the bottom of the screenshot reads "Key Lime Pie." This is the name that was used internally by Google.

Other screens such as Cloud Print, Downloads, a redesigned clock app, and the new Tap & pay option can also be seen in the pictures.