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For Android users across the globe, a big update is exciting, as these updates tend to bring show-stopping features that transform how you use your phone. The latest software version, Android 13, is now available on all the best Android phones and was first released in August 2022.
Unlike the previous OS update, Android 13 focuses more on polishing small aspects, meaning it only provides a handful of tangible improvements. This is to be expected since Android 12 was one of the biggest updates seen by the company in years, introducing new themes and more. While Android 13 isn’t an exciting change, it’s one that needed to happen to improve Android phones; after all, it’s not all about ATEX cells and other physical features.
It’s not just about improving performance; after the significant and controversial release of Android 12, it’s fair to say that Android users needed some breathing space to adjust to the new system. Consequently, Android 13 doesn’t change the fundamental look and feel of Android; however, it does return to an iterative approach in refining what was released in Android 12.
Interface and Design
As part of Android 12, Material You was introduced, the latest iteration of Google’s Material design language. This update completely transforms how app design typically works, as Material You provides a generated set of colors from your wallpaper, rather than the careful crafting of a color palette. This means the most personal and flexible interface can be created in any app that supports Material You.
Unfortunately, Material You came with a few underlying issues, and while Android 13 doesn’t solve every one of these, it does build on what was introduced by Android 12 and refines specific features. As a result, users are provided with much more flexibility regarding the changing of interface colors without switching wallpapers.
Privacy Features
Since Google is an advertising company that thrives on data being shared with it, privacy can be a difficult concept to navigate. That said, the brand is taking steps to make the whole process more transparent and prevent malware from accessing unneeded data. While Google will never go to the same extent as Apple, small improvements have been weaved into Android 13.
New Features
While it’s clear that Android 13 isn’t a feature-heavy release, there are some exciting updates to bear in mind. These include the following:
- Big screen improvements and split-screen regressions
- Per-app language options
- Notification improvements
Above are just some of the new and/or improved features that come with Android 13. The software continues to expand and improve.
Exclusive Google Pixel 7 Features
The first Google phones to launch with Android 13 are the Google Pixel 7 and Google Pixel 7 Pro. These are some of the best Android phones available, and this is mainly down to the software. Every pixel launch comes with a handful of exclusive feature, for the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, these include the following:
- Google VPN
- Clear calling
- Direct My Call improvements
- Photo unblur
- Bedtime mode improvements
- Voice commands and voice typing
- Automatic voice message transcriptions
- Expanded weather forecast in the morning
Android 13: Verdict
As Android 12 was the biggest update in years, it’s fair to say that Google wouldn’t be able to keep up with the release of Android 13. That said, huge transformations aren’t always necessary, nor are they always a positive thing. Essentially, Android 13 was released to establish the significant changes of Android 12. Therefore, it’s safe to say that Android 13 is worth it, as it refines the user experience of Android 12 and paves the way for Android 14.
