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.
FAQs
<strong>Which is the best feature of Android 14?</strong>
With Android 14, your health, safety and data is protected. You’ll be better informed of how apps use and share your data, and you’ll be encouraged to better secure your phone from unauthorized access. Plus, even more ways to make your device more you.
<strong>What improvements might Android 14 bring for developers?</strong>
Android updates often include new tools, APIs, and developer features to empower app creators and enhance the Android app ecosystem. Android 14 may introduce new developer APIs, improvements to development tools, and enhancements to support the creation of innovative and high-quality apps.
<strong>When will Android 14 be available for my device?</strong>
The availability of Android 14 for your device depends on several factors, including your device manufacturer, mobile carrier, and region. Google typically releases new versions of Android for Pixel devices first, followed by other manufacturers. You can check for updates in your device’s settings or contact your device manufacturer for more information.
<strong>How soon can users expect to receive Android 14 on their devices?</strong>
The availability of Android updates varies depending on factors such as device manufacturer, region, and carrier. Users can typically expect to receive Android 14 on newer devices first, followed by older models, although specific timelines may vary.
<strong>Does Android 14 support new hardware capabilities or technologies?</strong>
Users might be curious about whether Android 14 introduces support for emerging hardware features like foldable displays, 5G networking, or augmented reality.
<strong>How can I update to Android 14 on my device?</strong>
To update to Android 14, users can check for software updates in the settings menu of their device. Depending on the device manufacturer and carrier, updates may roll out gradually, so it may take some time before Android 14 is available for all devices.
<strong>Are there any improvements to notifications in Android 14?</strong>
Android 14 includes improvements to notifications, such as enhanced notification grouping, priority-based notification management, and the ability to snooze notifications for later viewing.
<strong>Are there any changes to app compatibility in Android 14?</strong>
Yes, Android 14 imposes stricter requirements on app developers to target more recent API levels, encouraging them to keep their apps updated for better security and performance compatibility.
