Android 3.0 Honeycomb SDK released to developers

Google has released the full SDK for Android 3.0 Honeycomb to developers, allowing them to start creating and publishing applications specifically for use on tablets.

Honeycomb has been redesigned from the ground up for use on large-screen devices. Key additions include a revamped interface, new-look widgets, improved multi-tasking and a redesigned keyboard.

Developers will be able to incorporate enterprise-friendly features into applications in a move that should boost uptake of the operating system by the business community.

Administration applications will be able to support encrypted storage, password expiration and password history, Google noted in the Android Developer Blog.

Developers will also be able to make use of new features in Honeycomb, such as the Action Bar which can be customised to show application features to users.

Enhanced notifications, and widgets that let users view content as 3D stacks, grids or lists, can also be built into apps.

Existing Android applications can also be ported to take advantage of the holographic user interface theme in Honeycomb without changing any code, Google added.

Android 3.0 is set to ship with the Motorola Xoom in the US tomorrow and is pencilled in for release in the UK in April. However, the Xoom will launch without Flash 10.1 support, which will become available soon after launch.

Several Honeycomb tablets are expected to follow Motorola's device, and the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 and LG Optimus Pad are expected to be released in the coming months.