A significant step towards the stable Android 14 release later this year has just been made with Google‘s recent release of the first Android 14 developer preview. Owners of Pixel phones may already install this preview via our update guide today, while owners of other phone brands must wait until the beta versions are released in a few months.
The first look, however, also offers us a decent indication of what to anticipate in terms of functions and adjustments. Let’s look at what’s new in Android 14 and go over all the most important features we currently know about.
Accessibility features
Google has made significant advancements in incorporating accessibility features throughout the years. Android 13, for instance, introduced audio descriptions, a reading mode specifically designed for individuals with visual impairments, and native support for braille displays. Concurrently, Android 12 brought about enhanced screen zoom functionality and the ability to navigate the screen using facial gestures.
Font Sizes
Large fonts have been supported by Android for a very long time; however, what if the largest option isn’t big enough for you? You’re in luck because one of the most notable improvements in Android 14 is larger font sizes. Google points out that users may now increase font sizes in Android 14 by up to 200%, whereas Android 13 could only do so on Pixel devices.
Satellite Connectivity
In the previous six months or so, companies such as Huawei and Qualcomm have all revealed satellite communication capabilities. Thank goodness, Android 14 will also have native support for satellite communications from Google. Hiroshi Lockheimer, a Google executive, tweeted the information in September 2022. Sadly, the corporation failed to elaborate on certain features here, such as support for two-way conversations and multimedia formats. Native support, though, should simplify things for smartphone manufacturers and service providers.
Language-related advancements
Moreover, language-related improvements are included in Android 14, starting with improved Grammatical Inflection API support for gendered languages. Another language-related improvement is the availability of more precise per-app language options for developers. A number of modifications are included in Android 14 in an effort to increase battery life. Although you shouldn’t anticipate anything as significant as Android Marshmallow’s Doze Mode or even an extreme energy saver, these modifications should still result in significant cost savings.
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