Google is usually launching the first beta of the next major version of Android on I / O in May. The cycle this year has been accelerated and Android 13 Beta 1 is launched earlier than usual for Pixel phones today. The installation process is now just a simple opt-in, but there is one thing existing QPR3 Beta users need to take care of to avoid deleting their device.
That said, we expected this release to arrive two weeks ago as today’s beta comes very close to I / O. It is unclear whether the next preview (Beta 2) will come in just over two weeks to be timed with the developer conference, or whether it will come a little later in May.
Android 13 Beta 1 is an “Initial Beta Quality Release”, the first to be available through OTA updates for “early adopters who sign up for Android Beta.” Developers are advised to “continue compatibility testing” and keep an eye out for feedback from the new wave of users. Other than that:
Start early testing targeting Android 13. Notify SDK and library developers of any issues.
A developer feature that Google highlighted today includes detailed permissions to access media on your device. Instead of a single permission that provides wide access, there are now individual permissions for images, video or audio.
Once permitted by the user, apps will have read access to the respective media file types. To simplify the experience for users if an app requests READ_MEDIA_IMAGE and READ_MEDIA_VIDEO at the same time, the system displays a single dialog box to grant both permissions. If your app has access to shared media files, migrate to the new permissions once your app is targeted to Android 13. More here.
As always, there is the Android Beta Feedback app on Pixel devices. You can access it from the drawer or via Quick Settings to submit errors in Google’s troubleshooting; The Android Beta community remains on Reddit.
Android 13 Beta 1 system images are available for Pixel 4 (XL), Pixel 4a, Pixel 4a 5G, Pixel 5, Pixel 5a, Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro as well as in the Android emulator.
Of course, most users will install Beta 1 (TPB1.220310.029) with the April security patch via the Android Beta Program website. Those on DP2 will “automatically get [Beta 1] and future updates in the air. “
If you are on Android 12 QPR3 Beta Program, which remains in operation until June and wants to participate in Android 12 Beta, you must first deselect this application. That said, you do not need to wipe your Pixel and can skip installing the stable public version (Android April 12 sec. patch) by immediately clicking “Sign Up” and selecting the Android 13 Beta application from the sign-up options.
If you need help, here is our full guide to installing Android 13.
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