Google release of Android 13 stable for certain Pixel phones on August 15, 2022, surprising even Android fans. Google normally releases stable Android versions in September or October. Android 11 was released for Pixel phones in September 2020, while Android 12 debuted in October 2021. Given that September is still a few weeks away, nobody expected Android 13 in August. Google’s ambitions differ.
Google said Monday that Android 13 would roll out to Pixel devices. Other Android device manufacturers like Samsung, Motorola, and OnePlus will get Android 13 later this year, but Google’s phones will get it first.
Google previewed Android 13 at I/O earlier this year, so there are no significant shocks. The “Material You” design language has been updated so whatever colour themes you choose for the phone will also apply to app icons. Multilingual users can select multiple default languages for individual apps instead of using one consistent language across the phone.
There are also privacy changes, such as a clipboard that deletes copied personal info after a set time and the ability to allow apps access to specific photographs and videos instead of the complete collection. Pixel owners won’t notice many changes on day one.
Pixel users can turn off the two-line digital clock that shows up when there are no notifications with Android 13.
The update will also allow Pixel users to hide the two-line digital clock when there are no alerts. Smart home devices can now be controlled from the lock screen. Both functionalities must be toggled. Settings > Display > Lock screen > Double-line clock (activated by default) or Control from locked smartphone (which is disabled by default).
August’s security update is included. Android 13 beta testers will get a lesser upgrade. For example, this writer’s Pixel 6 Pro was running Android 13 Beta4.1, and the update to Android 13 was only 31.96MB. Those in the beta programme might choose to receive beta copies of Pixel feature drops next year.
But if you want to leave the beta programme without having to wipe your phone, wait until you’ve installed the stable version of Android 13. Then you can opt out of the beta programme without wiping your phone’s data. Once Android 13 is stable, visit www.google.com/android/beta. Tap “View eligible devices” and choose Opt out.
Do this before leaving Android 13 beta to avoid wiping your smartphone.
You have a limited time to survive the Android beta programme. QPR beta in September is your next chance to return to the beta programme. This beta programme will expire in December with the Quarterly Pixel Feature Drop; anyone still in it or who re-joined it will be able to opt-out without wiping their phone.
If you’re allergic to erasing your phone’s data, get the stable version of Android 13 before leaving the beta programme.
Pixel 4 XL, Pixel 4a, Pixel 4a 5G, Pixel 5, Pixel 5a, Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, and Pixel 6a are eligible for Android 13. Pixel 7 and 7 Pro will ship with Android 13 pre-installed. Same goes for the Pixel Fold/Notepad (which could come with Android 12L) and Pixel 7 Ultra. Foxconn is rumoured to make the last two gadgets.
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