Android 14: first beta version released with new functionality

This Wednesday (12), Google opens the first beta of Android 14 to the general public. As with previews for developers, the system brings many new features for navigation, privacy, performance, and customization.

For example, Gesture navigation has been given a back arrow with the Material You aesthetic that adjusts to the device theme or wallpaper. Users who improve the experience will be able to see the screen of the application they will return to.

These aesthetic details promise to make using Android 14 more visually pleasing. They also help people understand the usability of the operating system.

Another addition to Android 14 beta is the new share page.. The operating system now allows developers to add custom actions to apps at the top of the menu.

According to Google, the goal is to improve the sharing experience compared to previous versions of Android. Instead of showing the options in alphabetical order, it is possible to highlight the most used applications.

Previously, developers had to create their own share pages if they wanted to feature certain apps. Something that doesn’t allow users to build “muscle memory” while using the tool.

More news from Android 14 beta

The first beta of Android 14 includes new graphical features such as transition effects. In addition, there is improved support for software language preference.

for privacy, OS will restrict visibility of sensitive data to allegedly blocked accessibility apps. Claims will be evaluated by Play Protect, and according to Google, the new protections aim to prevent vulnerable individuals from performing accidental transactions, such as money transfers, on bank apps.

Google Pixel phone owners can try the Android 14 beta by downloading the system from the developer site. It is worth noting that as there is no stable version, the software will be prone to bugs and some applications may be incompatible.