Google has announced the release of the first beta version of Android 14, the latest version of the world’s most popular mobile operating system. This new update is available for owners of Pixel 4a (5G) and newer devices who want to experience the new features and improvements of the new version of the operating system.
Android 14 has been highly anticipated, as it comes with many exciting new features that will improve the user experience of Android devices. One of the most significant features is the introduction of Material You, a new design language that allows users to personalize the look and feel of their Android devices. Material You lets users choose colors, patterns, and images that are reflected throughout the entire user interface, making the device feel more personal and unique.
Another feature that users will love is the enhanced privacy and security features. Android 14 has built-in privacy features that give users more control over their data, such as a new Privacy Dashboard that shows which apps have accessed their data and when. Additionally, the operating system includes a new feature called Private Compute Core, which is designed to protect user data even when it’s being processed on the device.
Google has also improved the overall performance of the operating system, with faster app launch times and smoother animations. Android 14 comes with a new feature called haptic-cushion API, which provides developers with the ability to create more immersive haptic feedback experiences.
If you want to try out Android 14, you can do so by signing up for the public beta test. To participate, you need to own a Pixel 4a (5G) or a newer device, and you can download the update through factory and OTA images or by signing up for the beta and getting the update over the air.
However, it is important to note that beta versions of the operating system may still contain bugs and other issues, so it’s not recommended for use on your primary device. Google recommends that users back up their data before installing the beta version of Android 14.
How to Install it?
Android 14 Developer Preview images are available for the following Pixel devices:
- Pixel 4a (5G)
- Pixel 5 and 5a
- Pixel 6 and 6 Pro
- Pixel 6a
- Pixel 7 and 7 Pro
Flash or manually install a system image
To flash your device, we recommend using the Android Flash Tool.
Set up a virtual device (phone)
To set up a virtual device to emulate a typical phone, follow these steps:
- Install the latest Preview build of Android Studio.
- In Android Studio, click Tools > SDK Manager.
- In the SDK Tools tab, select the latest version of Android Emulator, and click OK. This action installs the latest version if it isn’t already installed.
- In Android Studio, click Tools > AVD Manager, and follow the instructions to create a new Android Virtual Device (AVD).Be sure to select a device definition for a supported Pixel device and a 64-bit Android 14 emulator system image. If you don’t already have an Android 14 system image installed that matches your device definition, click Download next to the Release Name to get it.
- Return to the list of virtual devices in the AVD Manager, and then double-click your Android 14 virtual device to launch it.
