Google has just launchedthe first developer previewforAndroid 14, and while we’re still checking it out to find out what exactly is new in it, the company is already a step ahead. Google has shared the pre-release timeline for Android 14. If it sticks with the plan it laid out, we are looking at two developer previews and four beta releases before the stable release hits sometime after July.
As you can see in the timeline shared by Google, the company launched the first developer preview in February, which is supposed to be followed by another in March. In April, Google is opening up the testing field to more people with the launch of the Android 14 beta program, which will make it much easier to install the pre-release software. This is also usually the time when the beta preview program opens up to more devices than just the Google Pixel phones.
After that, we’re likely looking at a bigger update to Android 14 Beta 2 in May, which is when Google also holds its developer conference Google I/O. Historically, the company withheld a few features to announce them with more fanfare during the event.
With the subsequent June update to Beta 3, Google is locking APIs and new developer-focused features. This allows app makers to start coding for Android 14, as they can be sure that the company isn’t changing any further dependencies or options that could throw a wrench in their work.
After the last beta in July, the timeline shows the stable release without a month attached to it. If Android 13 and Android 12 are any indicator, Android 14 will launch for everyone in August. In the past, the company released new Android versions a little later, in September and October, so while it’s unlikely that there is a big gap between the last beta and the first stable release, it’s not impossible.
At the same time, it’s clear that the plan laid out by Google is merely that — a plan. It’s possible that there will be slip ups that will require extra updates in between these bigger milestones, which has happened before. The company could also need more time to finalize things towards the end, leading to a longer gap between the last beta and the first stable release.
It will also be interesting to see how upcoming products will fit in the timeline. Google is rumored to release the long-teasedGoogle Pixel Tabletduring Google I/O and the rumoredGoogle Pixel Foldsometime this year. There is alsothe budget-friendly Pixel 7athat will have to be released during the preview or beta phase. Usually, the company will add these devices to the beta program at a later point.
As for the first developer preview, the name tells us exactly what it is. Google makes clear the preview isn’t meant for consumers and should only be installed by developers who want to get their apps ready and give Google feedback. However, there is nothing stopping you fromdownloading and installing the Android 14 developer previewyourself, so if you’re aware of the risks and willing to live on the bleeding edge, flash away.
