Android 12 Beta 4 Released: Platform Stability Achieved

Google has progressed further in the rollout of its next-generation mobile operating system, Android 12, with the release of the fourth beta version. This latest build marks a significant milestone: Platform Stability. This means that the APIs and functionalities impacting application developers are now finalized.

Focus for Developers

Developers can now confidently test their applications, assured that future updates won’t introduce disruptive changes. Google is strongly advising developers to prioritize releasing updates compatible with Android 12.

Failure to ensure compatibility could lead to negative user experiences. Users may discontinue use or uninstall applications that malfunction after upgrading to the new Android version, Google cautions.

Key Consumer Features in Android 12

Android 12 introduces several notable features designed to enhance the user experience. Among these is Material You, a redesigned and highly adaptable design system.

This system allows for extensive personalization of the Android interface through theming options that extend throughout the operating system.

Enhanced Privacy Controls

Privacy is a central focus in Android 12. New tools have been implemented to provide users with greater control over their data and device access.

Microphone and camera indicators visually alert users when an application is actively utilizing these hardware components.
A clipboard read notification, mirroring a similar feature in iOS, informs users when an app accesses their clipboard history.

Additional Improvements

Android 12 also introduces the ability to instantly play games upon download via Google Play Instant. Existing features have also been refined.

Improvements have been made to Quick Settings, Google Pay, Home Controls, and Android widgets, among others.

Beta 4: Developer Preparation

While previous beta releases included smaller consumer-facing updates, Beta 4 is specifically geared towards enabling developers to prepare their applications for the public launch of Android 12, anticipated this fall.

Privacy Dashboard and System Changes

Developers should pay particular attention to the new Privacy Dashboard within Settings. This feature provides users with a comprehensive overview of app data access.

Other privacy enhancements include indicator lights for microphone and camera usage, clipboard access notifications, and toggles for globally disabling microphone and camera permissions.

User Interface and SDK Updates

A new “stretch” overscroll effect replaces the previous “glow” effect system-wide. New splash screen animations for applications have also been implemented.

Changes to key generation (keygen) require developer awareness. Compatibility testing is crucial for various SDKs and libraries, including those provided by both Google and third-party developers.