Google is set to launch the stable version of Android 14, along with the highly anticipated Pixel 8 series smartphones, next month. to the Pixel hardware event scheduled for October 4, the tech has already released the first Platform Release beta (QPR) of Android 14 for Pixel phones. By following its past release patterns, it is expected that the Android 14 QPR Beta 1 will undergo a release three months after its rollout. Excitingly, the latest beta update introduces a significant – the display of battery cycle counts – for Pixel handsets.
Details of Android 14 QPR1 Beta:
The Android 14 QPR1 beta provides a sneak peek into the forthcoming Pixel Feature Drop update. This particular build carries the version number U1B1.230908.003 and encompasses the September 2023 security patch. Currently, the update is being gradually rolled out to users enrolled in the Android Beta Program. The release notes highlight multiple bug fixes, as well as enhanced stability and performance.
Compatible Pixel Devices:
The beta update is accessible to several Pixel devices, which include the Google Pixel 5a, Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Fold, and Pixel Tablet. To obtain the latest software, users can manually check for the update by navigating to Settings > System > Software update. However, please note that the older Pixel 4a 5G and Pixel5 models are not listed to receive this specific update.
Beta Version Precautions:
Since this is an early beta release, Google cautions users that swapping SIM cards may lead to a temporary loss of cellular connection. Additionally, the battery level may momentarily display as 0 percent in the status bar. Hence, users should be mindful of these potential issues while using the beta version.
Enhanced Battery Information:
According to a report from 9to5 Google, the Android 14 QPR1 beta introduces an additional battery information feature in the Settings menu, expanding beyond the conventional charge level and usage statistics. A dedicated “Battery Information” section will now be visible on Google Pixel devices, providing details such as the battery’s manufacturing date and the number of charge cycles it has undergone. Users can easily access this information by navigating to Settings > About Phone > “Battery Information”.
Upcoming Release Expectations:
Typically, Google follows a pattern of launching a major OS update annually, followed by subsequent QPR1, QPR2, and QPR3 updates. If the company maintains this tradition, it is anticipated that Android 14’s first Quarterly Platform Release will officially debut within the next three months as the December 2023 Pixel Feature Drop.
In conclusion, the recent release of the Android 14 QPR1 beta showcases Google’s commitment to provide innovative features and improvements for its Pixel devices. With the inclusion of battery cycle counts as a notable addition, Pixel users can now gain deeper insights into their device’s battery performance. As we eagerly await the stable release of Android 14, the upcoming Pixel 8 series smartphones further contribute to the anticipation surrounding Google’s future offerings in the realm of mobile technology.
