Google Officially Launches Android 14, Provides More Control For Users

New features for Android 14 (photo: Google)

JAKARTA - Last year Google launched Android 13 with new features such as Spatial Audio, streaming messaging apps, and more. Now, Google officially launched Android 14, during the Made By Google event in New York City.

Based on its announcement, the search giant said that the Android 14 update would give users more control over their health and safety and improve the accessibility of their devices.

There are more ways to express yourself

Customization picker update on Android 14 is designed to make it easier to switch between wallpapers and quickly make changes to what you want to see first glance.

"You can now set special key screen shortcuts, such as QR readers or Google Home apps, so you have fast, one tap to control that you most often use directly from your Android lock screen," said Dave Burke, Vice President for Engineering, Android.

In addition, users have the option to be able to select a new set of key screen templates for fonts, widgets, colors, and formats. Google notes that the template uses AI to make changes based on your situation.

For example, if your area is going to experience bad weather, your key screen will make your weather widget more prominent.

Android 14 supports HDR images with Ultra HDR, which helps your photos look best with bright colors, brighter highlights, and darker shadows.

More control over health, security and data

Google also brings Health Connect to your device settings, as the main way to store all your data in one place and keep your privacy under control.

With new data sharing updates on Android 14, when you are asked to grant app permission to information like your location, you will be notified when the application shares location data with third parties and can make more informed decisions about whether or not to provide access.

Android 14 also improves PIN security by encouraging you to set a six-digit PIN. After typing a 6-digit PIN, you don't need to press enter anymore because your device will automatically unlock.

Now, Android 14 is starting to roll out to supported Pixel devices, and will come to Samsung Galaxy, iQOO, Nothing, OnePlus, Oppo, Realme, Sharp, Sony, Tecno, Vivo and Xiaomi devices later this year.