Mats Hellqvist
Today, Google released the first beta of Android 14, after two developer previews in February and March. This means that anyone can now easily test the upcoming software, even if they are not a developer. All you need is a compatible Google Pixel phone and registration on the Android Beta website. Shortly after registration, the Android 14 Beta 1 comes as an over-the-air update.
Anyone who is already enrolled in the Android 13 QPR Beta program with a device that also supports Android 14 will automatically receive the update to Android 14 Beta 1. As is usual with beta firmware, there may still be bugs and missing functions. This beta will be followed by another in May, according to Google’s release schedule. Starting in June, there will be two Platform Stability releases, also known as release candidates.
Android 14 Beta 1 brings new gesture navigation with a back arrow when interacting with apps. This arrow also complements the background image or device theme. Apps can add custom actions to system shares. Also, the system itself uses more app signals to rank direct share targets.
Android 14 Beta 1 also improves the per-app language settings that Google introduced in Android 13. The new version allows dynamic adjustment of the set of languages displayed in the language list per app. Keyboards also recognize the UI language of the current app. If necessary, you can use it to switch the input languages automatically.
Finally, accessibility services no longer get automatic access to certain views. Unless they claim to help users with disabilities. Corresponding claims are checked by Google Play Protect for apps in the Play Store.
