Android 13 Developer Preview 1 is out now: New features, changes, and rollout timeline | Digit

Google has released the Android 13 Developer Preview and as the name tells, this is meant solely for devs to test and try the forthcoming Android update. As for the general audience, the beta builds may surface around April month and “Platform Stability” releases should hit the market sometime in June-July. Now coming to what’s new, Android 13 may feel iterative, at least the Developer Preview (DP) 1. Simply put, Android 13 may build upon the foundation set by Android 12. Let’s see what we mean by that.

Here’s everything new and improved Android 13 brings to the table —

Android 13: Best New Features of Developer Preview 1

1) Apps can now access files like docs, photos, and videos, without seeking permission for all media on the device. This would serve simpler and safer local and cloud-based photo sharing. Google says this feature will be rolled out “to more Android users” through Google Play updates for devices on Android 11 and above (except Android Go).

2) Google Play updates will tend to “more of Android” and as more parts of the Android OS get updated via this service, the burden on platform updates will relax.

3) The whole welcoming approach of Android 13 extends to how the Android apps will be able to connect to nearby devices through WiFi only sans any location permit.

4) Even Material You that was introduced with the previous version will cover more icons, and not only Google’s own. This means all app icons on your phone could match the theme you choose, provided your phone’s OEM and app developers have done their part.

5) Not just icons and themes, but in-app languages could be changed to your liking. These per-app language preferences could also enhance the overall user experience on Android.

6)  Apps can offer Quick Setting tiles and you can add more custom tiles thanks to a new API in the system. 

These are the most notable new changes and features you get with the Android 13. We will be updating the list as we come across more information.

As for when you can expect beta and release candidates of Android 13, check below:

Android 13: Release Timeline

The Android 13 DP 1 was released on February 10, 2022. Now, the DP2 could come out next month, i.e., March 2022. The first Android 13 beta build may land in April and the second one in May, followed by “Platform Stability” builds in the month of June and July. 

In October, you may get the final Stable release of Android 13. We will keep you posted about this schedule and any other details we gather during this course.

Until then, keep reading Digit.in for more news, buying guides, feature stories, reviews, and everything else tech-related.