The Google IO 2023 event, held earlier this month, brought a lot of exciting news for tech enthusiasts. The company unveiled a handful of new devices, including the Google Pixel 7a, Pixel Tablet, and its first-ever foldable device, the Google Pixel Fold. But the software side of things also saw significant developments, with the announcement of the second iteration of Android 14 Beta.

Android 14 was first introduced in February 2023 as part of the Developer Program, with the first Beta announced on April 12. Now, with the release of Beta 2, more phones are now eligible for the Android 14 Beta program, beyond the select Google Pixel devices. The list now includes brands like OnePlus, Samsung, Nothing, and more.

Beta 2 brings with it a host of under-the-hood changes, including support for 10-bit high dynamic range (HDR) images. This feature enhances the vibrancy of colors and brings in more information from the sensor, resulting in more lifelike images. Additionally, 10-bit compressed still images can now be captured on supported devices.

Privacy has been given a boost with Android 14, with Health Connect integrated as part of the platform. This feature receives updates via Google Play system updates without requiring a separate download, making it easier for users to access. It can be found in the device’s settings, with privacy controls built into the system settings. Android 14 users will also have more control over apps that share location data with third parties, with a new section added to the location runtime permission pop-up.

Another notable addition to Android 14 is the Predictive Back gesture, which is now part of the system and not hidden behind developer options. This feature enables users to preview the destination or result of a back gesture before they fully complete it, allowing them to decide whether to continue or stay in the current view.

Developers also have much to look forward to, with a range of announcements around Android 14 Beta 2 to help them get ready for the final release.

As for the list of eligible devices, there are now many more phones on the list, with nine Google Pixel devices, along with models from OnePlus, Vivo, iQOO, Nothing, Xiaomi, Realme, OPPO, Tecno, and Lenovo. Samsung is expected to announce its list of eligible devices for the Android 14 Beta later.

With the expanded availability of Android 14 Beta 2, more users will be able to experience the features and benefits of this new version of the operating system. With the stable version set to go live in September, the wait is almost over for Android enthusiasts.

Android 14 Beta: List of Eligible Devices

Google Pixel 7 Pro
Google Pixel 4a 5G
Google Pixel 5a 5G
Google Pixel 7
Google Pixel 7a
Google Pixel 6 Pro
Vivo X90 Pro
Google Pixel 7
OnePlus 11
Google Pixel 6a
Google Pixel 5
Nothing Phone (1)
Realme GT 2 Pro
Lenovo Tab Extreme
iQOO 11
OPPO Find N2
Xiaomi 13 Pro
Xiaomi 13
Xiaomi 12T
OPPO Flip N2
Tecno Camon 20