Google released the first public version of Android 11 Beta last night after the developer beta has been “swarming” between different devices for a long time. It does so now, by surprise, after canceling the event that was due to take place last week to announce all the news of the new software.
Normally, the company tends to advance all the news of Android 11, and any other version of the operating system, for the Google I / O, but with the coronavirus canceling that event, the update has just been released without major fireworks.
In the public beta we have some of the features present in the “Developer” version, but also other new features such as changes in notifications, bubble conversations, security improvements and much more.
What’s new in Android 11
Improved conversations
The most notable update is a change in the way Android handles notifications. With Android 11 , Google allows you to keep conversation alerts separate from other notifications. Conversations will now live in their own section at the top of the notification panel, taking precedence over your other app and system alerts.
In addition, the floating ‘bubble’ system of Facebook Messenger is inherited, which can be accessed at any time while using other applications.
Better media controls
One of the most annoying things about listening to music on Android is switching devices. Sometimes you listen to your songs on the phone’s speakers, sometimes on headphones, others on Chromecast, and sometimes switching between systems is very uncomfortable. So Android 11 allows you to quickly select your audio output from the notification center.
Smart home
As more of our devices get smarter, it can be difficult to control them in separate apps or from the Google Home app when you’re doing something else. Google now provides much easier access to all interconnected devices: A long press on the power button will show the controls of the different devices in your home and will also show your credit cards and other payment methods added to Google Pay.
Privacy
If Android 10 boosted user safety, for example by limiting access to the location so that it only works when an application is actually being used (rather than in the background), now the company goes further. Google allows applications to be granted unique access to certain functions such as the camera or microphone. Also, if an app hasn’t been used in a long time, all permissions associated with that app will be “automatically reset” and a notification will be sent to you.
Accessibility and keyboard
System apps like the Google keyboard enhance context-sensitive custom hints as well as accessibility menu voice controls are also enhanced.
How to install the beta
As usual, Google is releasing its Pixel devices first, and the software is compatible with Pixel 2 and later models. Testing it is as simple as going to the Android Beta Program page and selecting your device. After doing so you will receive the OTA notice to install Android 11 Beta on your mobile.
Google will release the update to third-party devices in the coming weeks, with OPPO being one of the first to confirm that the software will hit the OPPO Find X2.