Google launched Android 14 Beta 4, which introduces additional improvements and bug fixes to the upcoming operating system.
This beta release represents the second iteration known as “Platform Stable,” indicating that no further changes will be made before the official release, expected to be available to the public soon.
It seems that Beta 4 is the final beta version before the official release for all supported Pixel devices. Although Google has not specified a release date, based on the pattern observed last year, it is likely to arrive in August. Google’s timeline also supports this expectation.
While Google’s timeline aligns with an August release, the company has not made an official confirmation.
Image Credits: Google
Google has not explicitly stated that the final release is next, possibly to allow for prompt resolution of any significant issues identified in Beta 4. In such cases, Google may release an additional update, such as Beta 4.1. Further information about the status of the final release will be revealed in the coming weeks.
For users already enrolled in Google’s Android Beta program, the Beta 4 update will be delivered over-the-air to eligible Pixel devices. If your device is not yet enrolled but you wish to participate, you can easily do so by following the instructions provided by Google.
Once enrolled, it may take a few minutes to a few hours before you receive the latest beta build as a software update.
The arrival of Android 14 brings excitement and anticipation for the introduction of new features and enhancements in the Android ecosystem. Users eagerly await the official release shortly.
Improvements in the Final Release
The latest addition in Beta 4 is a new feature called “auto-confirm unlock” found in the settings menu. It automatically unlocks the phone once you enter a PIN of six digits or more, eliminating the need to press enter for confirmation as before. However, Google cautions that auto-unlocking is a slightly less secure method compared to manual confirmation.
In previous beta versions, adjusting the Ring volume also affected the Notification volume, making it impossible to raise the ring volume without impacting notifications. However, in the latest update, these two volume controls have been completely separated.
Furthermore, Android 14 Beta 4 introduces several other improvements such as new default profile pictures, expanded support for tablets and foldable devices, an enhanced widget picker for tablets, and a more prominently placed split-screen option in the long press menu. The update is available for immediate download on Google phones, including Pixel 4a and newer models.
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