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Android 13 Features? Name and release date
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On August 15, 2022, Google released the latest stable version of its widely used mobile operating system: Android 13. If you bought a phone within the last two years, it’s likely you can enjoy all the new features of Android 13. For those who haven’t received the update yet, you have the option to install Android 13 manually or check when your device will receive it update. Below, we’ve compiled a list of key features introduced with Android 13 that you should know.
Although Android 13 is still one of the most popular Android versions, it is no longer the newest version. In October 2023, Google launched Android 14. For detailed information about the latest features of Android 14, join Getnada for a comprehensive guide through the article below.
Android 13: Name and release date
Before the release of Android 10, Google named its OS versions after desserts. Although the company has since shifted to using numerical designations publicly, it continues to use dessert names internally. With the first developer preview of Android 13, it was revealed that the codename is “Tiramisu.” This marks the first occasion in quite some time that Google has been so transparent about its codename.
Regarding the release date of Android 13, Google initially provided a projected timeline. The company adhered closely to this timeline and officially launched the stable version on August 15, 2022, at 1:00 PM ET.
What is Android? History of Development of Android Operating System
Android 13: Design changes
Android 12 introduced one of the most significant UI overhauls in years with the debut of Material You. This new interface allows for more personalized customization options, such as wallpaper-based color palette controls and more intuitive animations. While Android 13 doesn’t introduce changes as dramatic, Google has still added some new features and made design enhancements to improve the user experience.
Auto-theming icons
Google released the screenshots above when it launched the first developer preview. The 2022 version of Android includes a feature that allows you to auto-theme your icons, similar to how you can theme the rest of the operating system with Android 12.
However, there are two limitations to note. First, this feature is currently only available on Pixel devices. Second, it only works with apps where the developer has provided a monochrome icon compatible with Material You.
In other words, don’t expect a fully comprehensive auto-theming experience right away when you upgrade. It may take some time before this feature becomes as seamless as Google intends.
More Material You theming options
The OS update expands the available color-theming options by introducing six new palettes based on specific shades or complementary hues. These palettes include TONAL_SPOT (the default), VIBRANT, EXPRESSIVE, SPRITZ, RAINBOW, and FRUIT SALAD. While the first two options are quite similar, EXPRESSIVE and SPRITZ offer a significant departure from Android 12’s theming system. EXPRESSIVE uses colors not directly sourced from the wallpaper, whereas SPRITZ opts for a more grayscale, neutral palette.
Although this may not offer the level of granular control many users desire, it is a step in the right direction. Google also announced that starting with Android 13-powered Pixel devices, users can auto-theme specific apps. The auto-theming icon setting mentioned earlier includes this feature, allowing all supported apps to match your phone’s main colors when enabled.
Alternative lock screen clock setup
Android 13 introduces the option for users to choose between two different clock styles on the lock screen. Users can opt for either a single-line layout or the existing double-line layout. To access this toggle, simply go to Settings > Display > Lock Screen.
Android 13 features: Privacy and security updates
Privacy and security are top priorities for Google. With each new Android release, the company enhances the operating system’s security and privacy, giving users more control over their personal data. Android 13 continues this trend, introducing further improvements to protect user information.
New privacy and security hub
During the Pixel 7 launch in October 2022, Google introduced a new privacy and security hub for Android 13. This feature simplifies the management of privacy and security settings by consolidating them into one place and using action cards to prompt user responses.
Initially, the hub is exclusive to Pixel devices but will be available on other Android devices in the future.
Private photo picker
When sharing a document with an Android app, the document picker that appears is designed to be secure, granting the app access only to the selected documents. Previously, the photo picker lacked this level of security. However, in the new version of Android, this has been improved. Now, the photo picker also ensures that apps only have access to the photos you specifically choose to share. Check it out in action below.
The Android 13 photo picker is integrated directly into the system, enabling a consistent experience for selecting photos from both local and cloud storage across all applications. Even better, you don’t need to have Android 13 to access this feature: Google will roll it out to all Android 11 and Android 12 devices through the Google Play Store, with the exception of Android Go-based phones.
Android 13 Features: Functionality improvements
Android 12 brought a variety of new utilities, such as built-in scrolling screenshot support, one-handed mode, enhanced auto-rotate settings, and an AppSearch feature. Now, let’s explore what Android 13 has to offer!
More intuitive QR scanner support
QR code scanning has historically been cumbersome on Android, but that is no longer the case. Android 13 introduces a quick toggle that allows you to launch a simple QR scanner directly from your notification tray. This straightforward function means you no longer need a separate app for QR code scanning!
Native Bluetooth LE Audio support
Wireless audio receives an upgrade in the latest version of Android. It now includes built-in support for Bluetooth LE Audio and the Low Complexity Communications Codec (LC3). This codec is significant as it offers lower power consumption and enhanced audio quality on compatible devices.
Reworked audio output selector
Android 13 revamps the audio output picker, primarily with an aesthetic redesign to align better with the Material You theme. This update not only enhances the visual appeal but also simplifies the process of switching to a different audio output system.
Revamped clipboard features
In Android 13, cutting or copying text triggers a new alert box in the lower-left corner of the screen. This feature provides a visual representation of your clipboard contents, and you can tap the pencil icon to quickly edit the text. When you paste the text, you’ll use the most recent version. Although this is a small change, it significantly enhances text usability in Android.
Smart home controls in an unlocked state
To control your smart home devices, you typically need to unlock your phone, even if there is a toggle on the lock screen. However, Android 13 allows you to bypass this restriction if desired. Simply go to the Lock Screen section in Android Settings and switch on the appropriate toggle. This setting is off by default to maintain user privacy and security.
When was Android 13 officially released?
Android 13 was officially released on August 15, 2022.
What are some key features of Android 13?
Some key features include new color-theming options, a revamped audio output picker, a QR code scanner accessible from the notification tray, and support for Bluetooth LE Audio and the Low Complexity Communications Codec
Can I customize the clock style on the lock screen in Android 13?
Yes, Android 13 allows users to toggle between a single-line and a double-line clock layout on the lock screen. This can be adjusted in Settings > Display > Lock Screen.
Friendly interface, Easy to use