Android 14 release: date, features, phones, Pixel, Samsung
In place of Tiramisu comes Upside-Down Cake. Google is gradually introducing Android 14, and its Beta version can already be installed on a number of Pixel phones. Here we have collected all the important innovations and features that Android 14 will have.
When will Android 14 be released?
Android 14, internally known as Upside-Down Cake (the previous version was called Tiramisu), will be released to the general public in August 2023. The first developer beta of Android 14 was released in February 2023. Now, as of April, an updated beta version is already available for users who want to try it on their Pixel phones.
What are the new features of Android 14?
It is worth noting that the system is still being tested and is only an initial assembly, not much different from the previous version. Over the coming months, new user-facing features will be gradually added to the new version. Therefore, we can talk about new features based on unofficial information and rumors.
More economical battery consumption
The system will reprioritize application tasks and increase user control over whether applications periodically check the date and time. The new version is expected to consume less battery power by optimizing application algorithms and improving background processes.
Better text readability
In Android 14, it will be possible to significantly increase the text displayed on the screen, which will make smartphones more readable in bad lighting or for people with vision problems. Android 14 will support font scaling up to 200%.
Improved gesture navigation
Android 14 will improve gesture navigation. There will be an arrow on the screen that will allow you to quickly return to the previous screen, and its color will match the wallpaper currently being used, and the displayed animation will also change.
Separate Notification and Ringtone Volume Sliders
In Android 14, you can set the ringtone and notification sound level separately, thanks to the appearance of different sliders responsible for these functions.
Increased security and privacy
As is usually the case with new versions of the system, Google will provide protection against the most recent threats to your security made by malware. In particular, the system will track dangerous applications and block their installation. This applies to applications designed for older versions of Android, in which there is a possibility of hosting malicious programs. Android 6 has become the threshold for installing applications, which means that applications for earlier versions simply cannot be installed on a gadget with Android 14.
Some actions, such as making purchases or sending a transfer, will not be available without using a trusted accessibility service such as TalkBack.
PIN input improvement
In Android 14, you can turn off the PIN entry animation, which increases your security. This means that when you press the keyboard buttons, they are not highlighted. In addition, you no longer need to press the Enter key to confirm the six-digit PIN.
Individual measurement style setting
Now, regardless of their location, the user themselves will be able to set on their device either the metric or imperial style of measurement.
Applications synchronization
With Android 14, Google is making the share menu even more, and the interaction of the Google Assistant with other applications will increase, including synchronizing the operation of applications on a smartphone and your other wearable device.
Health Connect app
The new Health Connect app is an analogue of Apple Health, which will monitor your physical activity and help you keep track of your health.
Support for Flash Notifications
Now, when Flash notifications arrive, you can make your phone's display or camera LED blink.
AI functions
At the Google I/O conference, which was on May 10, 2023, the company announced that Android 14, along with other Google products, will receive artificial intelligence functions. The Bard chatbot will help users manage content on their devices or, for example, send messages or edit photos.
Which phones will get Android 14?
Android 14 beta can only be installed on Google Pixel phones: Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 5, Pixel 5a 5G, Pixel 4a 5G.
In the second half of this year, new flagship models of major brands such as Samsung, Xiaomi/Redmi, OnePlus, Motorola will be released with Android 14. In particular, the following models are expected to receive the new system:
- Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5
- Samsung Galaxy S23, S23 Plis, S23 Ultra
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5
- OnePlus 11