Google has released Android 14 QPR3 Beta 1, the latest beta update for its upcoming operating system. This update offers a glimpse into the upcoming June Pixel Feature Drop, alongside bug fixes and performance improvements. Here’s the key details:
What’s New:
- Bug fixes and performance optimizations: The update addresses various bugs and improves the overall performance of the system.
- Circle to Search: This AI feature, initially available only on Pixel 8 devices, is now functional in the beta program for all eligible Pixel devices starting from Pixel 5a. It allows you to search for things on your phone by drawing a circle around them on the screen.
- Easter Egg Update: The Android 14 logo in the Easter Egg is now enclosed in a triangle, hinting at the internal dessert name “Vanilla Ice Cream” for Android 15.
- Biometric Prompt Dialog: The dialog now displays the icon of the app requesting biometric authentication for better context.
- Touch Sensitivity Settings: The screen protector mode is now located under a submenu called “touch sensitivity” for easier access.
- Adaptive Touch Mode: This feature, still under development, aims to adjust touch sensitivity based on environmental factors.
- Easy Pre-set Mode: This feature, also in development, aims to simplify the Android UI for easier navigation.
- Swipe Up to Continue: Pixel Fold users can now swipe up on the cover screen to continue using an app, improving continuity between screens.
- Chat Bubble UI Revamp: Google plans to revamp the chat bubble UI for tablets in future updates.
- Developer Options: A new option allows developers to swap the current kernel with one using a 16K page size for testing purposes.
Availability:
The update is available for Pixel 5a, 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, 8, 8 Pro, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet series devices. If you’re already enrolled in the Android 14 Beta program, your device will automatically receive the update over-the-air (OTA). New users can join the beta program at g.co/androidbeta.
Important Note:
Please remember that this is a beta update and may contain bugs and instabilities. It’s not recommended for daily use on your primary device.
I hope this detailed breakdown provides a comprehensive overview of the Android 14 QPR3 Beta 1 update. Feel free to ask any further questions.