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Android 14: The first beta version offers few visible innovations

Jan Johannsen
13.4.2023
Translation: machine translated

Work on Android 14 is progressing. Google has released the first beta version, which can be tested by a larger group of people.

So far, most of the changes in Android 14 are taking place in the background. Visible innovations on a grand scale are still to come. Google itself names system navigation, privacy and performance as the major topics of the first beta version.

New design for back gesture

In the blog post on Beta 1 of Android 14, Google talks about adapting the operating system to tablets and foldables and providing app developers with the right tools, as it did with the first two developer versions.

The new back arrow for gesture control is already visible. It is highlighted with a circle in line with Google's current Material You design philosophy. The colours of the arrow and background are based on the selected theme or wallpaper. However, only Google uses the system UI for its Pixel devices. All other manufacturers use their own UI.

The new sharing area is also more relevant on other smartphones. Developers can customise this and add specific actions for their apps at the top.

An update to the "Android Path" interface also makes it easier for developers to access additional graphical options such as morphing and interpolation.

People who use the accessibility features will have more privacy protection. They can give apps less access to sensitive data. Among other things, Google wants to prevent accidental transfers or purchases in shopping apps.

Android 14 Beta 1 can now be installed as an OTA update on Pixel devices from the Pixel 4a upwards. Unlike with the developer previews, it is no longer necessary to install the update manually. However, it is still a test version that you should not install on your everyday device

This is what happens next

The second beta version of Android 14 is expected to be released at Google's developer conference I/O on 10 May 2023. This is also when I expect Google to present a large number of new functions on the big stage. The schedule envisages further beta versions until July. After that, the final version will be released - without a more precise date.

Cover photo: Jan Johannsen

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Jan Johannsen
Senior Editor
Jan.Johannsen@galaxus.de

When I was but a young student, I'd sit in my friend's living room with all my classmates and play on his SuperNES. Since then I've had the opportunity to test out all the newest technology for you. I've done reviews at Curved, Computer Bild and Netzwelt, and have now arrived at Galaxus.de. 

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