Google has officially released the stable version of Android 14, the latest iteration of its mobile operating system. The update is now available for Pixel phones, starting from the Pixel 4a 5G and above, including the newly launched Pixel 8 series. Other Android device makers are expected to follow suit in the coming months.
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What’s New in Android 14?
Android 14 doesn’t bring a radical overhaul to the Android experience, but it does introduce some notable features and improvements that enhance usability, accessibility, security, and performance. Here are some of the highlights of Android 14:
Big-Screen Optimizations
Android 14 is designed to work better on large-screen devices, such as tablets and foldables. The update adds a new split-screen mode that lets you run two apps side by side in landscape orientation, as well as a picture-in-picture mode that lets you resize and move the floating window anywhere on the screen. Android 14 also supports multi-window drag and drop, allowing you to easily transfer text, images, and files between apps.
Technology Updates shared a post on Twitter:
https://t.co/dsEQURBkZC #Android 14 QPR1 lets users use Android devices as PC cameras via USB.
Android 14 QPR1 is now rolling out on all supported #Pixel devices, and as expected, #Google has added a lot of features to the new version of the software…..#android14 #Pixel8
— Technology Updates (@DIYprojects55) September 22, 2023
Improved Battery Efficiency
Android 14 introduces a new feature called Adaptive Charging, which optimizes the charging speed based on your usage patterns. The feature aims to extend the battery life of your device by reducing the wear and tear caused by fast charging. Adaptive Charging learns when you usually plug in and unplug your device, and adjusts the charging rate accordingly.
For example, if you usually charge your phone overnight, Adaptive Charging will slow down the charging speed after reaching 80% and complete the full charge just before you wake up.
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Accessibility Settings
Android 14 adds several new accessibility settings that make it easier for users with disabilities or impairments to use their devices. One of them is non-linear font scaling, which allows users to scale font sizes up to 200%, providing more options for low-vision users.
Another one is ultra HDR for images, which enables users to capture photos with more details and colours using 10-bit HDR technology. Android 14 also improves the camera extensions API, allowing apps to offer features like in-sensor zoom, focus control, and post-view processing.
Security Upgrades
Android 14 enhances the security and privacy of your device by introducing several new features and changes. One of them is passkeys for third-party apps, which allows you to use your face or fingerprint as a password for supported apps.
This eliminates the need to remember or type complex passwords and also prevents phishing attacks. Another one is scoped storage enforcement, which limits the access of apps to your external storage. This prevents apps from accessing or modifying your files without your permission.
UI Changes
Android 14 also brings some subtle changes to the user interface that make it more consistent and intuitive. One of them is dynamic monochromatic themes, which automatically change the colour scheme of your device based on your wallpaper.
This creates a more harmonious and personalized look for your device. Another one is AI-generated wallpapers, which use machine learning to create unique and beautiful wallpapers based on your preferences and moods.
How to Get Android 14?
If you own a Pixel phone that is eligible for Android 14, you can check for the update by going to Settings > System > System update > Check for update. If the update is available, you can download and install it on your device.
Alternatively, you can also manually flash the factory image or OTA image of Android 14 on your Pixel phone using a computer. If you own a non-Pixel phone that runs on Android, you will have to wait for your device maker to release the Android 14 update for your model.
Google has said that Android 14 will be available on phones from Samsung, iQOO, Nothing, OnePlus, OPPO, Realme, Sharp, Sony, Tecno, vivo, and Xiaomi later this year. You can check with your device maker or carrier for more information on the availability and schedule of the update.
Conclusion
Android 14 is a solid update that brings some useful features and improvements to the Android ecosystem. The update focuses on enhancing the usability, accessibility, security, and performance of your device, as well as making it more compatible with large-screen devices.
If you own a Pixel phone that supports Android 14, you can get the update now and enjoy the benefits of the latest Android version. If you own a non-Pixel phone that runs on Android, you will have to wait a little longer for the update to reach your device.
