android 14 Archives - Exhibit Tech

Top Android 14 features to make your life easier

After months of testing, the new Android version is here. The Android 14 is not as feature-packed as Android 12, but it’s undoubtedly better than Android 13. The new Android version promises enhancements to privacy, security, and performance. Let’s see the top features of the new Android version that can make your life easier.

Experience a Revolution in Customization

With Android 14’s enhanced tools, you can unlock a new world of personalisation for your lock screen, such as a lock screen picker, dynamic lock screen templates, and a monochromatic theme. The innovation extends further with support for Ultra HDR images, and generative AI wallpapers based on text prompts, enabling a visual feast every time you unlock your device.

Larger Fonts and Smart Scaling

Typography becomes a canvas of legibility in Android 14 as it allows freedom to scale fonts up to an unprecedented 200%, a significant leap from the constraints of Android 13. The system’s nonlinear scaling ensures a seamless visual experience, preventing layout distortion. Revel in the clarity as words, especially headings, remain elegantly proportioned, catering to users according to their vision.

PIN Perfection

Android 14 unveils a security and convenience upgrade for PIN users. The ability to disable PIN entry animations adds an extra layer of privacy, making it harder for prying eyes to discern your code. Further, for PINs six characters or longer, the elimination of the OK button streamlines the unlocking process, seamlessly blending security with user experience.

App Adaptability

Google’s initial developer preview of Android 14 introduces a robust framework for developers, empowering them to craft apps seamlessly tailored for diverse screen sizes. Armed with various tools and expert design guidance, developers can now create apps seamlessly transitioning across smartphones, foldable devices, and tablets—a strategic leap mirroring Apple’s ecosystem cohesion from iPhone to iPad to MacBook.

Navigational Ingenuity Unleashed

Google’s latest update heralds an era of intuitive gesture navigation with a prominent back arrow harmonising with your device’s wallpaper. Complemented by predictive back gestures, users gain a visual preview of their destination with each swipe, eliminating the ambiguity of Android’s current back-swipe behaviour.

Empowering Privacy Choices

Android 14 strides towards user-centric privacy with a nuanced photo and video access approach. No longer confined to granting blanket access, users can now selectively authorise specific photos and videos for each app, offering a level of control akin to Apple’s iOS 14 privacy feature.

Power Thrifting

While lacking a singular headline feature, Android 14 discreetly transforms your smartphone experience with a focus on efficiency. Google’s meticulous tweaks to background tasks, downloads, and uploads result in a harmonious dance that minimises power drain. The “screen time since last full charge” feature is back to make your device’s battery an enduring partner in your daily adventures.

Fortifying Security Defenses

In the ongoing battle against malware, Android 14 raises the bar by preventing the installation of older apps from Android 5.1 and earlier, a move aimed at thwarting malicious attacks targeting outdated versions. Beyond this, the update introduces substantial security enhancements, with a notable emphasis on biometric login through passkeys—ushering in a new era of authentication convenience.

Illuminate Your Notifications

Android 14 introduces a sensory symphony with notification flashes. Whether through camera flashes or screen flashes, you control how your device alerts you. Opt for camera flashes, screen flashes, or both, and customise the colour that dances across your display. Beyond a mere convenience, it becomes a subtle art form, ideal for those who prefer a visual cue over audible notifications.

Guardian of Data Privacy

In response to the evolving landscape of data-sharing policies, Android 14 introduces a groundbreaking monthly warning system. Users are alerted when apps alter their data-sharing practices, providing a crucial shield against unexpected shifts in-app behavior that could compromise user data integrity. Stay informed and in control with Android 14’s proactive approach to data protection.

Google Pixel 8 Pro (Review) – Shaping Tomorrow, Today

Sometimes, I think even companies have the same twisted fate as ordinary people. Mr XYZ wanted to become an astronaut, but due to family pressure, he became a CA. Same with Pixel phones, they wanted to become a camera, but you know, society came in between. The company launched the Google Pixel 8 Pro along with the Google Pixel 8 and Google Pixel Watch 2 on 4th October 2023.

I’ve been living with the Pixel 8 Pro for the last couple of weeks, and so far, it has been a tremendous experience. When we received the Google Pixel 8 Pro, it seemed like an ordinary phone due to its basic user interface. But once you spend a few hours with the phone and check out the features it has to offer, it becomes the beast you have been looking for for years, and then there’s no going back.

Design

The Pixel 8 Pro is a visual stunner, setting a new standard for Google’s smartphone design. Swapping the glossy rear glass for a frosted matte finish, the rear side of the phone not only exudes sophistication but also enhances grip, ensuring one-handed use is effortless. The design continues to impress, with glossy aluminium rails seamlessly merging with the visor-style camera bar on the back. Each iteration refines this aesthetic, making it more rounded and integrated into the device’s build.

The Pixel 8 Pro has shed the squared-off corners of its predecessor for a more pleasingly rounded and comfortable feel. The curved display is replaced with a flat 6.7-inch screen, offering a user-friendly experience. Exploring the device’s edges, you’ll discover a USB-C port and a sim tray at the bottom, with power and volume keys conveniently positioned on the right edge. Unlike some Android devices, there’s no fingerprint sensor on the lock button – it’s cleverly tucked beneath the screen.

Display

The latest flagship device from the house of Google boasts a miraculous display like Maxwell’s 201* vs Afghanistan in ODI Mens CWC’2023. Google showcases its hardware prowess with the Pixel 8 Pro’s exceptional display. The Pixel 8 Pro boasts a 6.7-inch OLED screen with a 2992 x 1344 pixel resolution, featuring noteworthy upgrades. The 120Hz refresh rate offers seamless scrolling and smooth animations, with a remarkable ability to scale down to 1Hz, conserving energy for various tasks. The brightness levels are impressive, reaching up to 1,600 nits for HDR content and 2,400 nits at peak brightness, surpassing even the latest iPhone 15 Pro Max.

Whether in the bustling streets of Mumbai or the tranquil sunsets of Goa, the Pixel 8 Pro’s screen remains effortlessly visible. It may not show a stark difference compared to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, but Google’s attention to detail ensures you never need to think about it. Furthermore, the screen’s ability to dim significantly is a welcome feature, ideal for using the phone in a dark room without disturbing a sleeping partner. Beyond the enhanced refresh rate and brightness, the Pixel 8 Pro’s screen impresses with its sharpness, vibrant colours, and perfectly symmetrical bezels.

Performance

During my initial days with the Google Pixel 8 Pro, I hinted at potential disaster due to the troubled history of Google’s Tensor chips. However, the game has changed with Tensor G3, the powerhouse within the Pixel 8 Pro. In my extensive hands-on experience with the Pixel 8 Pro, I’ve pushed it to the limits—gaming, multitasking, streaming 5G videos, and snapping photos. So far, Tensor G3 emerged as a true champion, effortlessly handling every task without breaking a sweat.

The dreaded overheating problem that haunted earlier Tensor chips seems to be a thing of the past. Sure, there was a brief moment of warmth during an intense gaming session over a shaky 5G connection, but it was a rarity. The Pixel 8 Pro’s thermal performance has been commendable, with only occasional warmth during heavy usage, a far cry from the discomfort of its predecessors. Tensor, it seems, has finally found its stride.

Camera

The 50MP main camera, with an f/1.68 aperture, boasts 21% more light sensitivity and 2x optical zoom. The 48MP ultrawide camera, featuring an f/1.95 aperture, offers a 105% increase in light sensitivity and an enhanced macro mode, allowing shots from 2 centimetres away. The telephoto camera, now at 48MP, enjoys a 56% boost in light sensitivity and retains its 5x optical zoom.

The Pixel 8 Pro captures outstanding shots effortlessly, whether it’s a well-lit scene or a dimly lit ambience. The 5x telephoto camera may not reach the heights of a 10x optical zoom, but its quality shines through, delivering detailed images with consistent colours. The Pixel 8 Pro ensures that in 2023, the legacy of exceptional Pixel photography remains unshaken. Just point, tap, and confidently expect a stellar image.

AI Photo Editing

Google Pixel 8 Pro offers premium-level AI photo editing features such as Best Take, a standout feature that rescues imperfect group photos. It’s not face recreation; it’s face perfection. The Pixel 8 Pro empowers you to sculpt your photographic narrative effortlessly with the realm of the Magic Editor. The tool transforms Google Photos into an AI-powered Photoshop, allowing you to erase, move objects, alter the sky, and more.

Verdict

The Pixel 8 Pro is a harmonious blend of style, comfort, and functionality, undoubtedly one of the best Android smartphones of the year. Google has elevated its hardware game, offering an unparalleled software experience. So, the Pixel 8 Pro stands tall amongst all its rivals. It’s not just a phone; it’s a triumph.

Ratings – ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Get Ready for Google I/O 2023 – What to Expect!

The annual tech extravaganza, Google I/O, is just a stone’s throw away. The tech event brings the launch of the much-awaited Pixel 7A, Pixel Fold and maybe Pixel Tablet. Although the event primarily caters to developers, Google never fails to hold a keynote speech to reveal the latest and most innovative technologies that will soon be at the fingertips of consumers. Here’s everything you need to know about when and where to stream the event and a sneak peek of what to expect.

When?

The main attraction of the Google I/O 2023 event is the much-anticipated keynote, which is set to take place on May 10th, 2023, at 10:30 PM Indian Standard Time (IST), 1 PM Eastern Time and 10 AM Pacific Time. Google CEO Sundar Pichai will deliver remarks at the event, which will be held in person at the Shoreline Amphitheater in Mountain View, California, with a small live audience in attendance.

Where?

If you are eager to watch the Google I/O keynote, you can catch it live from various sources, such as Google’s official website and YouTube channel. In case you missed the live broadcast, don’t freak out! The recorded version will be available on YouTube to catch up on at your convenience.

What to expect?

Pixel 7A

The highly anticipated Google Pixel 7A has been making rounds in the rumour mill for several months now, and the device will likely be announced at the upcoming I/O event. Recent leaks have revealed a new sky-blue colour option as well as the packaging the device will come in. In fact, someone even managed to get their hands on the Pixel 7A back in March.

According to rumours, the Pixel 7A is expected to come with notable upgrades, such as a Tensor G2 chip and an upgraded 64MP primary camera with a 13MP ultrawide camera. In a first for Google’s budget-friendly A-series devices, it may also launch with a 90Hz refresh rate and support for wireless charging. However, these upgrades may come at a cost, as rumours suggest it could be priced at around ₹45k to 50k.

Pixel Tablet

Google fans have been eagerly anticipating the release of the Pixel Tablet for a while. After the initial unveiling of the Android-powered tablet at the 2022 I/O conference, leaked images showed a design that didn’t quite measure up. However, recent leaks suggest that the Pixel Tablet has undergone a significant overhaul and fits perfectly into the Pixel ecosystem.

The tablet is expected to come in various colours, and according to rumours from 9to5Google, the Pixel Tablet will feature the Tensor G2 chip, Android 13, 8GB of RAM, and an 11-inch display with a nano-ceramic finish. An early listing on Amazon confirms these rumours and indicates that the device may come with two 8-MP cameras, three microphones, up to 256GB of storage, and USI 2.0 stylus support.

Pixel Fold

A foldable Pixel phone is coming, and Google has finally confirmed the rumours circulating for some time – The search giant shared a teaser image and video showcasing the new device, which folds like a book. Unfortunately, the specifications of the Pixel Fold were not released, but a CNBC report suggests that it could have a 5.8-inch display when folded and a 7.6-inch screen when unfolded – a size identical to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 4. The Pixel Fold is anticipated to be powered by Google’s Tensor G2 chip, which is used in Pixel 7 series devices.

Android 14

Google I/O 2023 will likely unveil more about Android 14, the latest version of the Android operating system. The OS comes with several enhancements that cater to foldable devices, tablets, and larger screens, making it a perfect fit for introducing the Pixel Fold. Google has already released the beta version of Android 14, which includes several new features, such as better battery life, improved privacy controls, and enhanced font scaling. Additionally, the operating system has a new back arrow that blends with your background and supports passkeys.

AI

Google’s upcoming I/O keynote is expected to focus heavily on AI-related announcements, as the tech giant recently launched its ChatGPT rival, Bard, and is preparing to launch PaLM 2, the latest version of its large language model that supports over 100 languages. According to CNBC, Google is also expanding the generative AI tools it’s been testing in Workspace to Sheets and Slides and may announce enhancements to Bard, including “generative experiences” related to coding, math, and logic, as well as support for Japanese and Korean languages. Additionally, reports suggest that Google will release new AI-powered search tools this month.

Google rolls out Android 14 beta 1 update

The first beta of Google’s Android 14 OS is available to download now. With this launch, Google has followed a similar trend from last year releasing just a month before its annual developers conference – Google I/O. The company had previously launched two developer previews in February and March 2023 and now users enrolled in the Android Beta program can experience the latest OS on their Google Pixel devices. Non-Pixel devices do not get the latest Android 14 beta 1 update just yet. The new version emphasizes privacy, performance, developer productivity, and user customization. Android 14 also brings an upgrade to the large-screen Android experience on devices like tablets and foldable. Check out what’s new with Android 14 Beta 1 below –

Android 14 beta 1 – What’s new

Refined system UI: Android 14 introduces big changes to the System UI. Now, a prominent back arrow for gesture navigation has been introduced in the new update along with a better system share sheet which allows apps to add custom actions.

Per-app language preferences: Android 14 brings major customization options for users’ language preferences. It allows users to set specific languages for different applications along with giving IMEs (Input Method Editors)

App compatibility: Android 14 is currently in beta which allows developers and early adopters to test their applications. Users can try out Android 14 and report any issues they find. Whereas, developers can install their published application on Android 14 Beta to test compatibility and smoother performance.

PIN Privacy: Are you always concerned about people looking over your shoulder while entering your mobile security PIN? Well, you don’t need to worry anymore as Android 14 disables animations while entering PIN for improved privacy.

Live wallpapers for the home screen and lock screen: Android 14 adds support for setting different live wallpapers for the home screen and the lock screen. However, this feature is not activated by default. The new update also adds show weather on the lock screen toggle and a hidden clock setting.

The Android 14 Beta 1 supported devices right now include – Pixel 4a 5G, 5, 5a, 6, 6 Pro, 7, and the 7 Pro series. Users owning these devices can register to receive Android 14 Beta for over-the-air updates.