Google is rolling out its big 2022 Android update a little earlier than expected. Android 13 is now available on eligible Google Pixel devices, bringing the latest themes and security features to the masses. However, those with a non-Google Android device will have to wait a bit longer for the new software to arrive.
Android 13 has been in beta since earlier this year, but it’s not the only version of Android Google’s been tinkering with. It also tested and released Android 12L, which included optimizations for large-screen devices. Android 13 builds on that with a handful more user-facing features and numerous behind-the-scenes changes for developers.
The visuals will vary from one device maker to the next, but the version of Android 13 on Pixel devices features an evolution of Material You. There’s a new theme for playback widgets, and bedtime mode can dim your wallpaper. In Android 12, only Google apps could theme their icons to match the wallpaper color, but now that option is available to third-party apps.
One of the most important changes is something you’ve probably never considered unless you speak multiple languages. Android 13 includes the option to set your language on a per-app basis. Maybe you want Maps to operate in Spanish, but the Messages app needs to be in English — you can do that in the new OS.
Privacy is another main focus of Android 13. Now, apps that need access to media stored on your phone don’t get access to the whole shebang. You can select individual files, and the OS only provides access to the content you choose. You can also copy things to your clipboard with confidence, even if it’s a password. Android 13 clears your clipboard “after a period of time.” In our testing, it seems to be about an hour. Despite Google’s best efforts, some apps still abuse notifications, but Android 13 slams on the brakes. Now, newly installed apps have to ask for permission to send notifications.
To get the most out of Android 13, you’ll have to embrace Google’s ecosystem. While the integrations are still nowhere near as deep as Apple’s, Google has added several useful cross-device features. If you have an Android tablet in addition to a phone, you’ll be able to copy text and files to have them immediately available on your other device. Messages will also stream from your phone to a connected Chromebook. If you happen to have the right headphones, like the new Pixel Buds Pro, Android 13 has Apple-style spatial audio.
Android 13 is available on the Pixel 4 and later, but it might not arrive on your phone right away. If you’re impatient, Google provides flashable OTA files on its developer site. Devices from Samsung, OnePlus, Xiaomi, and others will get Android 13 starting later this year.
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