Android 13 is officially here - here’s what’s new and a list of supported devices

• Google’s OS update arrives a little early this year.
• Older Pixel devices such as Pixel 3 and 3a are not eligible for the Android 13 update.
• Below, read what’s new and what you will get.

After months of testing its Android 13 Beta version, Google has officially announced the release of Android 13 for Google’s Pixel phones. This year’s Android update is getting an official release a little earlier than usual, Android 12 was released back in October 2021 and Android 11 in September 2020.
Android 13 is not another design overhaul like Android 12. Instead, this year Google has focused on security upgrades and functionality improvements such as more intuitive QR scanner support, revamped clipboard features and more.
There are a few design changes like an updated media player and support for themed icons to match wallpaper colour. Besides this, there are small changes in the operating system. You can set different languages for a particular app, use Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) when running low on battery and record HDR video in third-party camera apps.
Google has also updated Android’s permission system, applications now must explicitly ask to send you notifications similar to iPhone and iPad.
The Android 13 also brings a newly updated taskbar on tablets that lets you see all your apps at a glance and allows you to drag and drop them into split screen mode.

Android 13: Supported devices

Currently, only Google’s Pixel phones are eligible for Android 13. Older Pixel devices such as Pixel 3 and 3a are officially left behind.

• Pixel 4
• Pixel 4a
• Pixel 5
• Pixel 5a
• Pixel 6
• Pixel 6 Pro
• Pixel 6a

The Android 13 update will be coming to devices from other manufacturers including Samsung, Oppo, OnePlus, Realme, Motorola, Xiaomi, Sony, and Asus later this year.
SEE ALSO:
MIUI 14 features and supported devices leaked—audio upgrades, new notification, and anti-fraud expected
Here’s how to download Android 13 Beta on your phone