Google has unveiled the beta version of Android 14 QPR1 for Pixel devices participating in the beta program. As we eagerly anticipate the upcoming Pixel hardware event scheduled for October 4th, Google has delivered the inaugural beta release of Android 14’s Quarterly Platform Release (QPR1) to Pixel smartphones. If we follow Google’s historical update patterns, we can anticipate a stable release of Android 14 QPR1 Beta 1 approximately three months from its initial rollout.
Let’s take a glance at some of the most valuable features that the newest Android version brings to the table.
Google Drops Android 14 QPR1 Beta 1
The build carries the version number U1B1.230908.003 and incorporates the September 2023 security patch. This update is currently being distributed to individuals who have enrolled in the Beta Program. In the release note, several bug fixes are highlighted, along with enhancements aimed at improving the device’s stability and performance. For Pixel 5a and later models, the latest Android version introduces a host of fresh features. Here’s a rapid overview of the top three most beneficial additions in Android 14 QPR1 Beta 1.
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1. Battery Information
On Google Pixel devices, a fresh ‘Battery Information’ section is said to make its appearance, displaying various details such as the battery’s manufacturing date and the count of charge cycles it has undergone. To access this information, users can navigate to Settings and then click on ‘About Phone’ > ‘Battery Information.’
Google has also noted that the cycle count could not begin at ‘0’ upon first use because of quality checks made before shipment.
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2. Repair Mode
Google appears to have drawn inspiration from Samsung by introducing a new feature called ‘Repair mode’. This feature is similar to Samsung’s ‘Maintenance Mode’ and can be quite useful when you need to ensure the safety of your pictures, videos, and other data while sending your device for repair.
As per the report from 9to5Google, there were code strings referencing a ‘secure environment’ discovered in Android 14 QPR1 Beta 1. This discovery suggests that the feature could share similarities with Samsung’s approach, adding further intrigue to its potential capabilities.
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3. Continue Using Applications on Fold Devices
This feature could be exclusive to the Pixel Fold. However, the ability to switch applications from the large inner display to the outer display was strangely absent until Android 14 QPR1.
To enable it open Settings > Display > Lock Screen. Within this context, you’ll encounter three choices: ‘Always,’ ‘Only games, videos, and more’ and ‘Never’.
Apart from this here are some issues that have been resolved with this Android 14 QPR1 Beta1 release –
- A problem has been resolved where the system UI would occasionally crash after notifications were posted or engaged with.
- Resolved the issue where, on certain occasions, a device became unresponsive after a reboot.
- Corrected the issue that led to device crashes in certain scenarios.
- Fix the issue of freezing of recording view during video recording.
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Signing-Off
There you have it, everyone. This article encompasses all the changes in QPR1 Beta 1. With any luck, we’re nearing the final release, and it should soon be available for all Pixel smartphones. Stay tuned for further updates and information. If you’re part of the Beta Program for Android 14, you’ll automatically receive QPR1 Beta 1 without any action required on your part. However, if you’re eager to be among the first to get the stable public release of Android 14, visit google.com/android/beta.