Google Requires Its Holo Theme To Be Bundled On Every ICS Phone

"Holo" is the main theme Google decided to go with in Android 4.x Ice Cream Sandwich and the software maker is determined to make it a standard. The problem with previous versions of Android, let it be Froyo or Gingerbread, was that applications were often inconsistent across devices. This is going to change, according to the Android Developer Blog.

"Before Android 4.0 the variance in system themes from device to device could make it difficult to design an app with a single predictable look and feel. We set out to improve this situation for the developer community in Ice Cream Sandwich and beyond," says Tim Bray on the Android Developer Blog. Manufacturers of phones running Ice Cream Sandwich will be required to include the Holo theme on the handsets.

This doesn't stop OEMs from differentiating from other device manufacturers. Custom themes are allowed for different ICS-powered phones but applications will look consistent, regardless if you run them on a Motorola, HTC, Sony Ericsson or any other brand. It will also make it easier for developers to take advantage of the "Holo" theme which will be bundled with phones. To put it simple, the blog says: "If the device has Android Market it will have the Holo themes as they were originally designed."

Source: Android Developers
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