Android 12: first Developer Preview available from now on: the new functions
Google has just released the first Developer Preview of the latest Android version; Android 12. This is almost exactly one year after the first developer version of Android 11. What can we expect?
Android 12 is alive!
A lot has come out recently about the new Android 12; and now the first sign of life is there. Google has released the first Developer Preview, making it clear that this is the start of testing Android 12. Like every Developer Preview, this version is only intended for developers and thus differs from a beta version, which is about a only expect a few months
If we look at the timetable, we will find out the following things. In February the first Developer Preview will be released (that’s the case now). In March the second Developer Preview will be released, followed by the third and final Developer Preview in April. The first beta version, with which the general public can get started (provided the correct device) appears in May. In the period June July appear the second and third beta. In August should appear the fourth beta version, just like the so-called release candidate build and eventually the stable version of Android 12. Then we also know which functions have definitely made it.
New functions
Because that Android 12 will have new functions, that’s for sure. However, it is not known which we will all see immediately, there is not enough information about that yet. Google does share the new possibilities it offers in Developer Preview.
Android 12 gets tweaks to the notification UI. The reports must be more modern, more user-friendly and more functional. This can also include improved animations and transitions. Developers must also be able to link actions to notifications and that apps open much faster from a notification. It must also be possible for haptic feedback (vibration motor) to be linked to audio. Sony already offers this option. It is not entirely clear how the function will work exactly.
Furthermore, a new API should make it easier for you to exchange content between apps via your clipboard. This way, you can easily copy and paste images and videos between apps in addition to text. In addition, Android 12 gives you native HEVC video transcoding, which should ensure better video compatibility. Also a new image format AVIF has been added to Android which offers higher quality images with low file sizes.
Finally, new Mainline modules have been added, which means that Google can update even more system components via the Google Play Store. We also find a number of changes for the use of cookies in WebView components, access to device identification numbers and MAC address restrictions. Furthermore, Android 12 will receive even more improvements in privacy and security. The navigation through gestures is also improved, on full screen.
In recent times, screenshots have been circulating about the new theme system that will be found in Android 12. Information also surfaced about downloading new emojis from the Play Store, sharing WiFi passwords via Nearby Share and many other improvements.
The Developer Preview is now available for the Pixel 5, Pixel 4a, Pixel 4a (5G), Pixel 4, Pixel 3a, Pixel 3a XL, Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL.
