New Features of Android 14 Beta 1 Update
Google has recently introduced the latest beta update for Android 14, labeled as QPR3 Beta 1. This update brings a host of bug fixes, performance improvements, and an early preview of the upcoming June Pixel Feature Drop.
The QPR3 Beta 1 update is identified by the build number AP21.240119.009 and Play Services version 23.50.14, along with the inclusion of the February security patches. Google has addressed an issue where an AI feature called Circle To Search was mistakenly made available to non-beta users, which has now been rectified in this beta release.
One of the key highlights of this update is the introduction of the Circle to Search feature for beta testers, giving them a glimpse of what’s to come. While this feature was initially exclusive to Pixel 8 users, it is now accessible to eligible devices enrolled in the beta program, starting with the Pixel 5a.
Mishaal Rahman has shared some noteworthy changes and additions in Android 14 QPR3 Beta 1:
– Circle to Search: Fully functional in the beta version.
– Easter Egg Update: The Android 14 logo now enclosed by a triangle, teasing the internal dessert name “Vanilla Ice Cream” for Android 15.
– Biometric Prompt Dialog: Now displays the icon of the app requesting biometric authentication.
– Touch Sensitivity Settings: Screen protector mode has been moved to a submenu called “touch sensitivity.”
– Adaptive Touch Mode: Designed to adjust touch sensitivity based on the environment.
– Easy Pre-set Mode: Aiming to streamline the Android user interface.
– Swipe Up to Continue: A feature for Pixel Fold users to seamlessly continue using an app on the cover screen.
– Chat Bubble UI Revamp: Planned enhancements for tablet devices.
– Developer Option: Enables swapping the current kernel with one using a 16K page size.
– Media Processing Service Type: Potential addition in Android 15.
This update is now available for a range of Pixel devices, including Pixel 5a, 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, 8, 8 Pro, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet series. Users are encouraged to provide feedback on user-facing bugs through the Android Beta Feedback app.
Existing participants in the Android 14 Beta program will receive the QPR3 Beta 1 update automatically via over-the-air (OTA) delivery. To enroll in the Android beta program or learn more about it, visit g.co/androidbeta.