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Android 12L is currently enjoying its third beta release that is now Compatible with Google Pixel 6 devices. For more information on how to enroll in the Android 12L beta program, click here, but why do users need it in the first place?
Android 12L is the Android 12 experience we all know and love but optimized for large screens and foldable handsets. There are dual menu pane support, a taskbar, and even more great features that will make it hard to go back to a traditional Android handheld experience. Let’s break down some of these features so our readers can get a good grasp on why to get Android 12L.
Please note, only certain devices are currently supported by Android 12L, click here for more information.
Android 12L – An OS optimized for large screens
Android 12L is an operating system designed to look better on larger screens and foldable. The following features have been optimized for the best user interface experience on this side of handhelds and tablets:
- Notifications
- Quick settings
- Lock screen
- Overview
- Home screen
A new two-column layout now displays notifications and quick settings separately thanks to Android 12Ls new two-column layout. The lock screen takes a similar approach to highlight features such as notification highlights and the clock. System apps follow a similar optimization method also, making use of two columns to save users time on scrolling.
Accessibility is key on a large or foldable screen, so for actions such as pin unlocks, users can perform these on either side of the screen. Fold and unfold transitions have also been optimized, meaning a seamless experience from the outer screen to an unfolded screen.
Multitasking
Drag and drop and gestures make their way to Android 12L to optimize multitasking. Combining these features with the new taskbar, it’s easier than ever for users to switch apps on the fly, or even have multiple apps open and working at once. The taskbar can be revealed at any time by long-pressing anywhere on a screen.
Improved compatibility experience
Compatibility mode allows apps to behave on newer operating systems when they haven’t been optimized correctly for it yet, although there are plenty of apps that are already running natively on Android 12L.
The example below shows Android 12L in compatibility mode displaying an app meant for standard Android 12 use in a letterbox format so users can experience the app how it is meant to be experienced.
Android 12L is currently in Beta 3 with a rumored stable release now in the works. For all the latest news on Android, make sure to follow our news hub. Looking for some guides and how-tos on Android? Bookmark and visit our Android hub here.