It’s official: Android 13 is sort of right here. Google has announced it’s placing the ending touches on the following model of the cell working system and {that a} fourth beta is prepared for obtain. You’ll get the replace over the air as quickly because it rolls out to your machine.

Android 13 Beta 4 has nothing notably new to indicate off that we haven’t already detailed. Google urges builders to finalize compatibility testing and push out any essential updates earlier than the OS launch. The Beta 4 replace additionally features a launch candidate construct of Android 13 for Pixel gadgets and the emulator in Android Studio. A launch candidate often means a “sneak preview” of what’s to return. You can nonetheless sign up for the beta if you wish to hop on and take a look at it out for your self.

Software updates are actually thrilling once they deliver new options. The subsequent model of Android 13 might not make as a lot of a splash as Android 12, which launched a brand new design paradigm referred to as Material You. But it ought to really feel extra refined throughout the board. Google’s perked up extra visible parts throughout the interface, just like the media playback controls within the Quick Settings, new Material You colour choices, and matching app icons. It’s even bundled with a neat screensaver that you would be able to reap the benefits of in case you use charging gadgets just like the Pixel Stand 2.

Android 13 can be a bit extra privacy-minded. For occasion, the brand new picture picker API in Android 13, initially launched within the first developer preview, works identical to on the iPhone. You’ll need to grant entry to a photograph album earlier than an app can browse every little thing that’s in there, or you may select to pick solely the recordsdata of curiosity.

If you’re bothered by persistent pings from apps you don’t care to listen to from usually, Android 13 gives the flexibility to shut off notifications earlier than they even begin. Any time you put in a brand new app, you’ll get a pop-up window asking if you to permit the newly put in app to inform you.

Android pill customers will even profit from this subsequent full launch. Google constructed Android 13 with all of Android 12L’s large-screen enhancements. It contains interface parts like a taskbar for tablet-sized screens and the flexibility to disregard fastened orientation so apps can scale no matter display screen measurement. There’s additionally a multi-window mode coming that will help you swap between duties.

According to Google’s Platform Stability tracker, that is the penultimate launch till the ultimate supply code goes dwell. The subsequent model of Android is simply across the nook.