Lock screen customization, Ultra HDR images and improved data security are all at Android users’ fingertips in the latest software update from Google. The new OS offers a bevy of features both practical and entertaining, even if it isn’t as expansive as some of Android’s past updates.
Google’s Pixel phones were the first to receive the update, while the Samsung Galaxy S23, Z Fold4 and Z Flip4 were among a number of Samsung devices recently receiving the update. Android 14 is still in the rollout process, so some phones do not support the update yet. You should get a notification on your device when the update is available to you. To update your phone, simply scroll to the bottom in Settings and tap System, and an option for System Update should be available.
Read on to discover the latest features offered in Android 14.
Security and protection enhancements
Android has always emphasized phone security and continues to provide new options for users wanting to dictate how much information they share with others, including third-party apps. Apps that request specific information and permissions will now need to be much more transparent in their requests and allow for more flexibility in how much info is given. For example, when apps request access to photos, you can now select specific photos rather than their entire photo gallery. Additionally, users will now be notified when an app wants to share their location with third parties and have the option to restrict access.
Ultra HDR images
Android continues to make improvements on its camera experience, introducing High Dynamic Range (HDR) supported images. Ultra HDR images are colorful and high-contrast photos that bring out striking details through a process of capturing the subject at multiple exposures. Android’s HDR format is backwards compatible with JPEG images and can easily be converted into Standard Dynamic Range, meaning the HDR system operates seamlessly in other formats.
Customizable lock screens and wallpapers
Building upon Android’s strong track record of format and screen customization, Android 14 offers several new ways to personalize your device. With Android 14, you can customize your lock screen with new widgets, shortcuts and a range of clocks. Another exciting customization opportunity arrives with new wallpaper options. Android has rolled out a wallpaper generation technology utilizing artificial intelligence. Not yet available on all Android devices, hopefully this feature will be more widely available soon.
Accessibility feature updates
For those who are constantly zooming in on small text, Android 14 enables non-linear font scaling at larger sizes. Essentially, users can adjust their device’s font size up to 200 percent (compared to 130 percent for Android 13). Notably, pre-existing large text does not increase in size, so it doesn’t crowd the screen. This feature should create a smoother reading experience and prevent oversized text from cutting off at awkward points on the screen.
Health Connect
Android’s health and fitness hub gets revamped for this update, centering health and fitness tracking on one platform that seamlessly connects with other fitness apps you incorporate into your routine. Previously available as an app on the Google Play Store, Health Connect is set to become part of the Android OS and be accessible in Settings rather than as a separate download.
As mentioned earlier, Android 14 is not yet available on all Android devices, but stable versions of the operating system will be rolling out on more devices in the near future. Check out our selection of Android devices here.
