Best New Features on Android 13
Robert Cerff / 18-07-2022 / News & Tips
Code-named Tiramisu for dessert lovers, Android 13 will likely make its big debut in late August or September. Currently in beta, Google’s new operating system is a step in the right direction with new features that build on the already well-rounded Android 12.
For the low down on all the top features of Android 13, we got you covered.
Four times more colour
Android 13 builds on Google’s Material You by unlocking more personalisation features. The design concept supports more colours for themes, including 16 wallpaper colours and 16 basic colours. That's four times more than Android 12. You can access this colour kaleidoscope directly from your home screen or go to your settings.
Better organisation for enhanced security
With enhanced security, Android 13 introduces a safer, more private app experience. The update categorises your images, videos, and audio when an app requests access to your media files. You can then use the new file picker to grant access to certain files only. By granting limited access, an app won't be allowed to dive into your whole library.
Permission to get notified
Thanks to the new update, apps can no longer send you notifications by default. Previously, installing an app on Android meant it had permission to send you notifications automatically, and the only way to stop this was manually changing the setting. Now, all apps must ask for permission before a single notification comes through.
Prioritising tablets
If you own a tablet, we have good news for you. Android 13 is all about making your life easier by introducing a taskbar at the bottom of the screen with frequently used apps, more streamlined drag and drop multitasking, and a compact two-column arrangement for notifications and quick settings. There is also speculation that the Wear OS smartwatch will be able to unlock tablets automatically and support audio switching.
Quick access to QR code scanner
QR codes blew up in popularity during the pandemic and now it's an essential feature on smartphones. With Android 13, you will be able to access the QR code scanner quicker by dragging it onto your notifications panel.
Good-looking media player
The media player that appears when you pull down the notification shade has been revamped with the new update. There are more details available, including a line that shows the progress of a track or podcast playing, and the entire background features the album art when available. You can also switch to headphones or linked speakers much easier than before thanks to an audio output picker redesign.
The lock screen gets smart
Smart home controls can now be accessed on your lock screen for your ultimate convenience. Previously, you could only access smart-home gadgets by unlocking your phone, but now you can go to your settings and switch on “control from a locked device”. Once activated, your smart home controls will be found via the Home icon at the bottom left of the lock screen.
If it’s time to upgrade your Android smartphone so you can enjoy the new operating system when it rolls out, check out Mondo for the best Android deals across South Africa’s leading networks.
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