Google has rolled out the Android 14 QPR1 Beta 2 update for supported devices, setting the stage for the December Feature Drop release following the October Pixel Feature Drop.
The Android 14 QPR1 Beta 2 update (U1B2.230922.006) brings various bug fixes and enhancements, along with the important October 2023 security patch. Some of the key fixes include:
- Settings App Issue: An issue causing the Settings app to crash when accessing Bluetooth settings after pairing a device has been resolved.
- Smooth Scrolling: On certain devices, a problem where the scrolling animation wasn’t smooth has been fixed.
- System Stability: Various issues affecting system stability and performance have been addressed.
Notable Changes and Features in Android 14 QPR1 Beta 2:
- Redesigned System Update Page: Google has given Pixel devices a new-look system update page that provides information on the OS status, Mainline version, and Pixel system apps.
- Personal Safety App Enhancement: In the Personal Safety app, users can now add their height, weight, and pregnancy status. This information is synced across paired devices under the same Google Account and is end-to-end encrypted.
- Weather App Inclusion: Android 14 QPR1 Beta 2 includes the Weather app from the Pixel 8, enabling weather information display in the Google Clock app and the “World” clock widget.
- Aspect Ratio Settings: The aspect ratio settings are now labeled as experimental or labs, with a warning that some apps may not be optimized for certain aspect ratios.
- Foldable Phone Feature: The “continue using apps on fold” option for the Pixel Fold has been hidden but is still available in the build.
- Screen Protector Mode Notification: Enabling screen protector mode in Settings > Display will now provide a notification when it’s active.
- Battery Diagnostics: Google is working on a Pixel Troubleshooting app to help users diagnose battery and network issues. A new battery diagnostics page under Settings > Battery is part of this initiative.
- App Permissions Sync: Android 14 QPR1 Beta 2 is preparing to introduce a feature that lets you sync app permissions between your phone and connected Bluetooth devices.
To get Android 14 QPR1 Beta 2, eligible Pixel devices can enroll for automatic over-the-air updates. Compatible devices include Pixel 5a, 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet series devices. Others can manually download the update from the Android Developer’s site.