Android is the most popular and widely used mobile operating system in the world, powering billions of devices from smartphones and tablets to smartwatches and TVs. As such, there is always something new and exciting happening in the Android universe, whether it is a major system update, a new device launch, or a cool feature announcement.

In this blog post, we will give you a summary of the latest Android news and updates from Google and other manufacturers, covering the most important and interesting developments in the past month. Here are some of the highlights:

Google releases Android 13 Beta 4

Google has released the fourth and final beta version of Android 13, the next major update of its operating system, on August 15, 2024. This beta version is considered to be the release candidate, meaning that it is very close to the final and stable version that will be available to the public soon.

Android 13 brings many new features and improvements to the Android platform, such as:

• A new Material You design language that adapts to your wallpaper, preferences, and mood
• A revamped notification system that prioritizes and categorizes your alerts
• A redesigned quick settings panel that offers more control and customization
• A new privacy dashboard that shows you how apps access your data and permissions
• A new one-time permission option that lets you grant temporary access to your microphone, camera, and location
• A new app hibernation feature that optimizes the storage and performance of unused apps
• A new scrolling screenshot feature that lets you capture more content on your screen
• A new smart reply feature that suggests relevant responses and actions based on your messages
• A new emoji kitchen feature that lets you mix and match different emoji to create new expressions
• A new game dashboard feature that lets you access game-related tools and settings
• A new earthquake alert feature that warns you of impending seismic events in your area

Android 13 Beta 4 is available for Pixel devices and select devices from other manufacturers, such as OnePlus, Xiaomi, Oppo, and Realme. You can enroll in the Android Beta Program to get the update over-the-air, or download and flash the system images manually. However, you should be aware that beta versions may contain bugs and issues, and may not be suitable for your daily use.

Samsung unveils Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3

Samsung has unveiled its latest foldable devices, the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and the Galaxy Z Flip 3, at its Galaxy Unpacked event on August 11, 2024. These devices are the third generation of Samsung’s foldable lineup, and they offer significant improvements and innovations over their predecessors.

The Galaxy Z Fold 3 is a tablet-sized device that folds into a smartphone, while the Galaxy Z Flip 3 is a smartphone-sized device that folds into a compact clamshell. Both devices feature:

• A durable and flexible display that can bend and fold without breaking
• A water-resistant and dust-resistant design that can withstand splashes and spills
• A sleek and stylish design that comes in various colors and finishes
• A powerful performance that can handle multitasking and gaming
• A long-lasting battery that can last all day
• A versatile camera system that can capture stunning photos and videos
• A seamless user experience that adapts to different modes and orientations
• A compatible S Pen stylus that lets you write and draw on the screen (only for the Galaxy Z Fold 3)

The Galaxy Z Fold 3 and the Galaxy Z Flip 3 are available for pre-order now, and they will start shipping on August 27, 2024. The Galaxy Z Fold 3 starts at $1,799, while the Galaxy Z Flip 3 starts at $999.

OnePlus launches Nord 2 5G and Buds Pro

OnePlus has launched its latest mid-range smartphone, the Nord 2 5G, and its latest wireless earbuds, the Buds Pro, on July 22, 2024. These products are the successors of the original Nord and Buds, and they offer upgraded features and performance at affordable prices.

The Nord 2 5G is a 5G-enabled smartphone that features:

• A 6.43-inch AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate and a punch-hole selfie camera
• A MediaTek Dimensity 1200-AI chipset that delivers fast and smooth performance
• A 4,500mAh battery that supports 65W fast charging and can last a full day
• A 50MP main camera with optical image stabilization and a Sony IMX766 sensor
• A 32MP selfie camera with a Sony IMX615 sensor
• A dual stereo speaker system with noise cancellation and Dolby Atmos support
• An OxygenOS 11.3 software that runs on Android 11 and offers a clean and customizable user interface
• A sleek and elegant design that comes in two colors: Blue Haze and Gray Sierra

The Buds Pro are wireless earbuds that feature:

• A hybrid active noise cancellation technology that can reduce up to 40dB of noise
• A smart adaptive noise cancellation technology that can adjust the noise cancellation level according to the ambient sound
• A 11mm dynamic driver that delivers rich and balanced sound quality
• A 38-hour battery life that supports fast charging and wireless charging
• A water-resistant and sweat-resistant design that can withstand splashes and workouts
• A OnePlus Audio ID feature that can personalize the sound profile according to your hearing
• A Zen Mode Air feature that can play soothing sounds to help you relax and focus

The Nord 2 5G and the Buds Pro are available for purchase now, and they will start shipping on August 8, 2024. The Nord 2 5G starts at $399, while the Buds Pro starts at $149.

We hope you enjoyed this summary of the latest Android news and updates from Google and other manufacturers. If you want to stay updated on the latest developments in the Android universe, make sure to follow our website and subscribe to our newsletter.

Thank you for reading and happy Androiding! 😊

– DroidByte Team 🤖