Google finished work on Android 13 and launched it on Monday. As usual, Google’s Pixels are the first to be updated, but several other manufacturers are already recruiting beta testers for their interpretations on the new OS: Xiaomi, OnePlus, vivo and iQOO, even Oppo.
Are you excited about the new version? Ok, back up – will your phone also get Android 13? Manufacturers have gradually extended the support window for their phones, but two OS updates are still the standard for many brands. And even with a longer window, some phones just passed eligibility.
What’s new with Android 13? Material You’s design has evolved and can now customize the look of non-Google apps to match background and theme colors. Multilingual users can set a different default language for each app. In addition, the Bedtime mode darkens the screen so that your eyes adjust to the dark and you can go to sleep more easily.
Improved theme engine • Language selection per app • Music player has a new look
Several important security features have also been added. The apps will no longer see your complete media library, you can only select specific photos and videos. The notes will be periodically deleted if they contain sensitive data (passwords, telephone numbers, etc.). One major change is that notifications are now turned on instead of turned on by default – apps will need to ask for permission to show you notifications.
Audio is receiving a major upgrade with support for Bluetooth LE Audio and Spatial Audio (for head-sensing headphones). Tablets are getting a taskbar for better multitasking and better palm rejection. Collaboration between phone and tablet or Chromebook is getting better – chat apps can be viewed on the Chromebook, plus nearby sharing lets you copy something from your phone and paste it to your tablet.
The new taskbar • Chat from a Chromebook • Copy / paste to Share nearby
Of course, manufacturers will add their own features and style to their custom Android branding. Do you prefer a particular skin over stock Android or is it the other way around? Let us know in the comments.
We know some are against upgrades – they can change how your phone works and disrupt your workflow. Will you stay on an older version of Android, even if you have the option to upgrade?
And finally, with the iPhone 14 series coming in early September, how many of you will abandon ship?
PS. If the poll widget above isn’t working for some reason, try voting here.
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