Google’s Android Q features list is growing and the release date is nearing, as we expect to see beta 3 from the mobile operating system update in a few hours.
The beta program is open for developers and early adopters, but be forewarned, there are plenty of bugs and issues in its current state.
The official Android Q release date is likely to be in August, according to Google’s timeline and last year’s timing.
Google has outlined six stages to its six-month-long beta process, including the initial release, three incremental updates, one update with final APIs and the official SDK, and then two release candidates. That’s all before the final version of Android 10.
As is usually the case, Google only talks about a handful of features that it feels are important to users and developers alike. As we continue to test and use Android Q, we’ll surely find new features and will update this post as needed. In the meantime, here are some features Google has talked about.
Privacy
The biggest area of focus of Android Q appears to be related to user privacy. For example, users can now limit when an app has access to their location. In the past, you either gave an app access to your location, or you didn’t. Starting with Android Q, you can limit an app’s location access only when you are using the app.
There are also finer controls for file management, restricting access to device identifiers such as the IMEI, serial number, and other IDs that can help track a user.
Bubbles
Similar to Facebook Messenger’s Chat Heads, Bubbles will display small circular, floating alerts on top of whatever it is you’re currently doing on your Android device. Users will have to approve each app that wants to use Bubbles as a notification method, so your screen shouldn’t be overrun with alerts from every app you have installed.
Sharing shortcuts
With Android Q, Google has created new tools that make it possible for the share sheet to load instantly.
Foldable screen support
Android Q is preparing for foldable phones in 2019, or “foldables and innovative new screens,” according to the Android Developers Blog post.
System-wide dark mode
This is something that had has been said from the start and in the beta program.
Pressure-sensitive ‘Deep Press’
Android Q may support a Force Touch-style feature (think 3D Touch in iPhones) in phones.
