The first developer preview of Android 13 was rolled out a couple of months ago. Alongside, Google issued a timeline for the release of a stable version. Adhering to its schedule, the first beta for the Android 13 OS is live for the supported Pixel devices, marking the next phase of the operating system.
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The supported Pixel devices include Pixel 4, Pixel 4a, Pixel 4a (5G), Pixel 4 XL, Pixel 5, Pixel 5a, Pixel 6, and Pixel 6 Pro. FYI, the beta versions have a little fewer issues compared to the developer previews and are easier to install.
Where Android 12 is considered the “major overhaul to Android in years.” Android 13 seems to emphasize boosting privacy and security. The first beta packs all the new features introduced with the two Developer Previews. In addition, the stability and functionality of these new additions are refined.
Moreover, it includes new permissions related to accessing media files, improvements to APIs for audio routing, and much more. As mentioned before, its primary focus is on privacy and security. Here is everything in detail:
- New permissions to access multimedia files
- Android 13 will introduce a new set of permissions where the requests can be limited to a specific type of media file. The system will no longer ask for access to all files. For instance, you can grant specific permission only to audio files.
- Android 13 will introduce a new set of permissions where the requests can be limited to a specific type of media file. The system will no longer ask for access to all files. For instance, you can grant specific permission only to audio files.
- Error guidance for security
- The system will provide more detailed and accurate error guidance for apps that generate security keys, like Keystore and KeyMint.
- New APIs for audio routing
- There are newly added routing APIs on AudioManager class. This will help different media apps to identify how audio will be routed.
If you own a compatible Pixel smartphone, you can easily join the beta program via the Android Beta Program site. According to the timeline, Android 13 beta testing will be completed by June, hitting the “platform stability” milestone. Afterward, the new Android iteration intends to hit the stable phase by Q4 2022.
