Google has been releasing a series of beta versions for its upcoming Android 14 operating system, but it seems that the stable release is still far from ready. The latest update, Android 14 Beta 5.2, is the third bug-fixing release in a row, following Beta 5.1 and Beta 4.1. The update mainly addresses issues affecting the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet devices, which are expected to be the first to run Android 14 out of the box.
Android 14 Beta 5.2: What’s New?
According to Google’s official announcement on Reddit, Android 14 Beta 5.2 includes various fixes for devices that have stalled upon rebooting. It also fixes issues that could interrupt cellular connectivity for devices that utilize E-UTRAN New Radio – Dual Connectivity (ENDC) when those devices were connected through 5G NR low-band frequencies.
However, the bulk of the fixes are aimed at improving the user experience on the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet devices, which have been plagued by screen flickering, UI crashes, animation stuttering, and fingerprint sensor unresponsiveness. Here is a list of some of the notable fixes for these devices:
- Fixed an issue on Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet devices that caused the fingerprint sensor to be unresponsive in some cases.
- Fixed an issue on Pixel Fold devices with stuttering animations when viewing or tapping the notification for an ongoing call.
- Fixed an issue on Pixel Fold devices that sometimes caused the system UI to crash after using the fingerprint sensor.
- Fixed an issue on Pixel Fold devices that sometimes caused the screen to briefly flicker when unfolding the device.
- Fixed an issue on Pixel Tablet devices that sometimes caused a colored bar to display or flicker after unlocking the device.
- Fixed an issue on Pixel Tablet devices that caused the system to play incorrect sounds when docking or undocking the device.
The update is rolling out to all devices enrolled in the Android Beta Program, starting from the Pixel 4a 5G and newer models. Users can check for the update by going to Settings > System > Software update.
Android 14: When Will It Be Released?
Google has not announced a specific date for the stable release of Android 14, but it is expected to happen sometime in September or October, based on previous patterns. However, given the number of bugs and issues that Google is still working on, it is possible that the release could be delayed further.
Android 14 is supposed to be a major update that introduces new features and improvements such as Material You design language, privacy dashboard, one-handed mode, scrolling screenshots, app hibernation, and more. It is also expected to support new form factors such as foldable and tablet devices, which Google is reportedly working on.
However, some users and developers have expressed frustration and disappointment with the beta testing process, which has been plagued by bugs, crashes, and performance issues. Some have even opted out of the beta program due to these problems.
Google has acknowledged these issues and has provided a lengthy list of known problems that it is aware of going into Beta 5.2. The company has also asked for feedback and bug reports from users and developers to help improve the quality of Android 14 before its official launch.
