Google just launched a 5e beta of its Android 14 operating system, and it could well be the last before the deployment of a stable version next month on compatible Pixels.
Since February, we’ve been treated to developer previews and several betas of Android 14, the next major iteration of the world’s most popular operating system. After a fourth beta that arrived last month with some changes, Google has finally deployed the fifth beta, which this time should be the last.
Unlike previous versions, we’re not dealing with a lot of new features, Google having just fixed a large number of bugs. This 5th version presents the finalized SDK and NDK APIs, which indicates that this could be the Release Candidate (RC) version, a kind of post-beta, but pre-stable release, which should directly precede the public release.
What changes on the 5e Android 14 beta?
Among the long list of bugs fixed by Google, one of them solves An issue where Wi-Fi scanning was consuming too much battery, thus improving device battery life. We also find the correction of various problems related to the camera which caused crashes and drops in quality, or even Fixed a power consumption issue during video playback.
Google also fixed issues with Google Pixel Folds not being able to connect to certain routers. An issue where system buttons had inconsistent positions after being folded and unfolded has also been fixed. The lock screen on all devices now correctly displays the clock, and another bug with incorrect overlapping and stacking of widgets has also been addressed.
Among the small notable new features of this version, we find Better support for pen writing on the Gboard keyboard. A new floating toolbar will also accompany the new handwriting gestures of the stylus. Google is also working on the ability to stream media to your Pixel tablet by simply holding your phone in front of it.
Finally, you will soon need to be able to “link your devices [Android] ยป connected to the same Google account. This will allow switching between devices for calls, as well as a feature called “Internet sharing”. At any rate, the update is now available for download on compatible Pixels. The stable version should arrive next month.