Android 14, the latest iteration of Google’s mobile operating system, brings a slew of new features and design tweaks to the table. From changes in the lock screen and always-on display to improvements in the share sheet and quick settings, Android 14 aims to enhance user experience and functionality. In this article, we’ll dive deep into what’s new and improved in Android 14, providing you with a detailed overview of the changes and how they impact your Android device.
Android 14 Build Number and Update Size
Let’s start with the basics. The build number for Android 14 is up, and the update size on a Google Pixel 6 Pro is approximately 1 GB. While these figures may vary slightly depending on your device, they should give you a rough idea of what to expect when updating to Android 14.
Always-On Display and Lock Screen
The lock screen and always-on display (AOD) receive significant design tweaks in Android 14. Here’s what’s new:
AOD Design Changes
In Android 14, the AOD features a more streamlined design. Instead of elements being separated, they now align on the same line, creating a cleaner look. The font size on the AOD is smaller, and gaps between elements have been reduced. If you have media controls on your lock screen, you’ll notice that they are now positioned slightly higher.
Lock Screen Shortcuts
One notable change in Android 14 is the way lock screen shortcuts are triggered. Unlike Android 13, where a single tap activated them, Android 14 introduces a new animation and requires you to tap and hold. This action also provides haptic feedback for a more engaging user experience.
Autoc Confirm Unlock
Android 14 brings a new feature called “Auto confirm unlock.” With this enabled, you no longer need to tap the “Enter” key after entering your PIN code. It automatically confirms your PIN and grants access to the home screen. This feature is available for PIN codes with six digits or more.
Customize Lock Screen
Perhaps one of the most exciting changes in Android 14 is the ability to customize your lock screen clock and shortcuts. To achieve this, tap and hold anywhere on the lock screen, and you’ll receive haptic feedback. A “Customize Lock Screen” button appears, leading you to a redesigned interface.
Clock Designs
In this interface, you can choose from eight different clock designs using a horizontal carousel. Your selection reflects immediately on the lock screen without the need for additional steps.
Clock Color and Size
Android 14 allows you to customize the color and size of your lock screen clock. You can match it to your wallpaper colors or select from a range of preset colors. The brightness slider further enhances customization.
Shortcut Customization
Android 14 introduces a new menu item called “Shortcuts” for both left and right lock screen shortcuts. While you can’t add custom apps or shortcuts, you can choose from preset options such as camera, do not disturb, flashlight, mute, QR code scanner, video recording, or wallet.
Wallpaper Changes
Changing your lock screen wallpaper in Android 14 is slightly different. Instead of immediately seeing all available wallpapers, you are presented with the most recent five. To access more options, tap a button, which takes you to a familiar selection screen.
Color and Wallpaper Changes
Android 14 presents five wallpaper colors directly on the front screen, eliminating the need for a carousel. Tapping on the ellipses provides access to additional color choices.
Dark Theme
The Dark Theme toggle is now located under the System Colors page in Android 14, rather than on the front page like in Android 13.
Additional Lock Screen Features
Android 14 offers new features such as the ability to activate camera flash or screen blinking notifications when you receive alerts. These features aim to make notifications more visible and accessible.
Home Screen
The home screen in Android 14 also undergoes several changes and enhancements:
Overlay Menus
Overlay menus on the home screen now feature a new animation, making interactions feel more dynamic. This animation is bouncier and slower compared to Android 13.
App Shortcuts
The app shortcuts menu receives a redesign in Android 14. Gone are the separators, and system and app options are now separated into two groups. Additionally, the handles next to each shortcut are removed, but you can still tap and hold to place them on your home screen.
Notifications in App Shortcuts
Unlike Android 13, Android 14 no longer displays notifications within the app shortcuts menu when you tap and hold on apps with notifications.
Pagination Dots
When scrolling on the home screen, Android 14 introduces pagination dots to indicate your position, replacing the thin line in Android 13.
Google Lens Integration
Google Lens gets a new icon on Android 14, making it more accessible for users.
Google Search Widget
In Android 14, you can tap and hold the Google Search widget on the home screen to access preferences and the “Search your phone” menu.
App Drawer
The app drawer in Android 14 features a gray background color instead of white. Additionally, the back arrow is redesigned with a fill color and bolder font.
Predictive Back Gesture
The predictive back gesture in Android 14 behaves differently, offering less customization compared to Android 13.
These changes in the home screen and app interactions aim to provide a more visually appealing and streamlined experience for Android users.
Share Sheet Redesign
Android 14 brings a complete redesign of the share sheet, enhancing the sharing experience:
Share Sheet Handle
The share sheet handle at the top of the screen is now larger and displays the type of content you are sharing, making it more informative and user-friendly.
Edit and Nearby Share
Android 14 introduces changes to the placement of the “Edit” and “Nearby Share” buttons. They are now larger and float over the content, providing a more intuitive sharing experience.
Spacing and Separator
The spacing between share sheet elements is reduced in Android 14, giving a cleaner and more compact appearance. The separator between sharing options has a darker color for better visibility.
Improved Share Sheet in Google Chrome
Google Chrome on Android 14 features a redesigned share sheet that offers a more polished and user-friendly interface compared to previous versions.
Quick Settings Enhancements
Android 14 brings several improvements to the quick settings panel:
Clock in Quick Settings
You can now tap the clock in the quick settings to open the clock app, providing a convenient shortcut.
Screen Record Floating Card
The screen record floating card receives a redesign in Android 14, enhancing its visual appeal.
Font Size Style
Android 14 introduces a new font size style in quick settings, allowing you to adjust font size directly from the panel for quick accessibility changes.
Media Controls
Media controls in Android 14 feature visual enhancements and new animations:
Button Animations
When you tap media control buttons in Android 14, you’ll notice new visual effects that start from the button’s location. These animations provide a more engaging user experience.
Play/Pause Animation
In Android 14, when you play or pause media, the animation continues for a few seconds after the action for a smoother transition.
Media Output Switcher
The media output switcher in Android 14 boasts design tweaks:
Percentage Display
When adjusting volume via the media output switcher, Android 14 displays the
percentage for precise control.
Muting Sound
Android 14 allows you to mute sound immediately by tapping on the speaker icon within the media output switcher.
Title Updates
The media output switcher now features updated titles, with a clearer margin between icons and text.
Additional Tweaks and Changes
Android 14 introduces various smaller changes and optimizations throughout the user interface:
Screenshot and Clipboard Popups
In Android 14, share and edit buttons in screenshot and clipboard popups are larger and more user-friendly.
Sound Profiles
Under volume controls, Android 14 allows you to set ring and notification volumes separately, providing greater control over audio settings.
Navigation Mode
The navigation mode menu, previously found under display settings, is now a standalone option under system settings, making it easier to access.
New Shortcuts Menu
A new shortcuts menu in Android 14 enables you to modify lock screen shortcuts more efficiently, providing an alternative to the Wallpaper & Style app.
Improved Multiple Users
Android 14 introduces phone call activation for guest users directly from the front page of multiple users settings, enhancing usability.
Erase SIMs Option
Under reset options, Android 14 separates the erase Wi-Fi, mobile, and Bluetooth option into individual menus for improved clarity.
Manufacture Year
In the “About Phone” section, Android 14 displays the year of manufacture, providing additional device information.
Performance, Battery, and Thermal Management
Now, let’s discuss the overall performance, battery life, and thermal management improvements in Android 14. While this analysis is based on the beta version, it provides insights into what users can expect from the stable release.
Performance
Android 14 aims to enhance overall system performance. Users can expect smoother animations, improved app responsiveness, and more efficient multitasking. The redesigned overlay menus and app shortcuts contribute to a more fluid user experience.
Battery Life
Battery life optimization is a key focus in Android 14. The introduction of features like Adaptive Battery and Extreme Battery Saver, along with better background app management, should result in improved battery longevity. The ability to customize the lock screen clock and shortcuts allows users to tailor their device for power efficiency.
Thermal Management
Efficient thermal management is crucial for preventing overheating and ensuring the device operates smoothly. While Android 14 beta users reported positive experiences with temperature control, it’s essential to monitor this aspect in the stable release for a comprehensive assessment.
Android 14 Feature Drop
In addition to the features mentioned above, Google announced an October 23 feature drop for Android 14. Here are some highlights:
Interpreter Mode for Pixel Fold
The Pixel Fold receives an interpreter mode that leverages both inner and outer displays for live translation. This feature enhances the device’s utility for multilingual users.
USB Cable Compatibility Notifications
Android 14 introduces notifications when an incompatible USB cable is connected, informing users about charging limitations or slow charging.
Kids Space for Pixel Tablet
Pixel tablets now feature Kids Space, a simplified and child-friendly user interface with built-in safety features, providing a secure environment for young users.
Additional Features
The feature drop likely includes various additional enhancements and optimizations that further enhance the Android 14 experience. These updates demonstrate Google’s commitment to continuous improvement.
Conclusion
Android 14 brings a wealth of exciting features and design enhancements that aim to elevate the user experience. From customizable lock screens to streamlined share sheets and improved performance and battery life, Android 14 offers a significant upgrade. While this overview provides a comprehensive look at Android 14’s changes, the stable release may introduce further refinements and surprises. As Android users eagerly await the official release, it’s clear that Google is dedicated to delivering a user-friendly and feature-rich mobile operating system.