What Evo 4G users can expect from Froyo

Network World - If you're a Sprint customer who is happy with your Evo 4G device but disappointed you can't bring it to work, help is on the way.

That's because Google next week will push out the Android 2.2 update, also known as "Froyo," to Sprint's popular WiMAX-based device. The Evo will be the first device to get the new version of the Android operating system, with other devices such as the HTC Droid Incredible and the Motorola Droid X soon to follow.

Android's enterprise features put it on par with iPhone, not BlackBerry

But what, exactly, can Evo users expect from the Froyo update? The big thing will be the bevy of enterprise features the operating system update will add, giving IT departments more control over Android-based devices than they have had in the past.

Android 2.2 will give administrators the ability to enforce password policies across Android devices and to remotely wipe any Android devices that become lost or compromised. Android 2.2 will also support Exchange Calendars and auto-discovery to make it easier for users to set up and sync Exchange accounts.

These new features will give the Evo 4G the bare minimum that most analysts recommend for letting a device come onto the corporate network, but they still won't put the Evo on par with BlackBerry devices as far as enterprise security goes.

IT departments should also be wary of Android devices in general, since the Android application market does not filter out applications posted for sale. This means that there are significant dangers for users who don't carefully watch what permissions they grant applications they download onto their devices. A recent study by security vendor SMobile found that around 20% of all applications available on the store could compromise sensitive corporate information.

Other features that Froyo will showcase when released next week include:

-Support for Flash video: Flash is the most widely-used video platform on the Web and is currently barred by Apple on its iPhone. Putting Flash on Android-based devices could give a slight competitive advantage in attracting users who want access to as much video as possible.

-Wi-Fi tethering: This is a great feature to have if you're in an area with WiMAX connectivity. Since Sprint's WiMAX service typically delivers download speeds in the 2.5M to 4Mbps range, tethering your laptop to your Evo 4G will give you significantly faster upload and download speeds than your typical 3G connection. Froyo's tethering service allows you to connect up to eight devices through the Evo 4G.

-LED flash now enabled for the phone's video camera: This will allow you to shoot videos in the dark or areas with low light.

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