Google Launches Android 16 Public Beta 2: Key Enhancements and Features
Google has officially rolled out the second public beta of Android 16 for compatible Pixel devices. This release introduces various enhancements compared to the initial beta, such as improvements in media handling and photography, updates to accessibility features, along with performance optimizations and compatibility refinements.
Availability of the New Beta Version
The latest beta is accessible for Pixel models starting from the Pixel 6 onwards, alongside the Pixel Tablet and Android Emulator. Users who are already part of the Android Beta Program should receive this update via an Over-The-Air (OTA) download.
Exciting New Camera Features
This update unveils numerous camera advancements including hybrid auto exposure controls, refined adjustments for color temperature and tint, enhanced motion photo capturing capabilities, as well as support for Ultra HDR images in HEIC format. Google has indicated that further improvements will include AVIF support for Ultra HDR in subsequent releases.
Color correction features such as tint manipulation showcased in Android 16 Beta 2.
Innovative Graphical Effects Using AGSL
The introduction of custom visual effects powered by the Android Graphics Shading Language (AGSL) allows users to apply sophisticated effects like Thresholds, Sepia tones, and Hue Saturation across various draw calls.
Enhanced Health and Security Features
This version also includes more detailed health and fitness permission settings alongside strengthened defenses against Intent redirection vulnerabilities. Furthermore, it implements an updated compatibility mode supporting applications designed for both standard sizes—now accommodating a novel page size setup of 16KB alongside traditional configurations that utilize smaller memory pages.
The newly added functionality regarding page size compatibility.
User Accessibility Upgrades
Significant strides have been made regarding accessibility tools with improved TalkBack features enabling better interaction with elements featuring multiple labels. Additionally, streaming applications on devices running Android 16 can now dynamically adjust video quality based on hardware capabilities.
The Path Ahead: What’s Next?
Following this public beta release phase, Google plans to introduce two additional betas over the upcoming months. The platform stability milestone is targeted for March while consumer availability is anticipated later within Q2 this year.
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