Android 13 QPR2 Beta 1: The spatial audio switch is available again by default on the Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 7 and 7 Pro.

The switch first appeared back in 13 QPR1 Beta 1, but Google disabled the feature in the final release, delaying it until January 2023.

Google News | En

Not a fan of disjointed Twitter threads?

If you want to read a summary of EVERYTHING I found in Android 13 QPR2 Beta 1 without scrolling through my massive Twitter thread, here it is on Reddit.

Android 13 QPR2 Beta1 already contains a new design of the back gesture arrow.

In its demonstrations of how predictive back gesture works, Google used an updated design of the arrow, which had its own container. And the first beta version of 13 QPR2 lets us see it "live".

The new design is being tested separately from the predictive back gesture, but for sure they will work in conjunction. Unfortunately, it will not be possible to activate it by simple means. So we just have to wait.

Video demonstration from Mishaal Rahman's Android blog.

Google News | En

Google is experimenting with a second iteration of its Account Switch menu Material You overhaul.

Previously, we showed that Google wants to update the design of the user switch in Google Calendar. Having never rolled it out, the company has already made a new iteration of it.

It now has dynamic colors that surround the internal container with account controls. You can see the "evolution" of this menu in the attached picture.

This change is found in version 2022.50.1-495242739, but has not yet been rolled out to users.

Google News | En

Happy New Year 2023, our dear followers!

I think we've grown quite a bit over the past year, both in terms of quality of content and in terms of statistics on the picture. Also, we opened @gn_issues project, where we are collectively trying to improve the quality of Google software, which we will report on very soon.

Also, we're making good progress on finding hidden new features in Google's apps, and sometimes we've provided useful software ourselves.

On behalf of myself, I would like to wish that the coming year will be surely better than the outgoing year, for each of you. And for me, time and energy for new posts 🙃.

Once again, happy New Year to all! Thanks for you support, You guys are the best! See you next year! 🎉

Pixel devices are receiving the January 2023 security patch.

The build number is TQ1A.230105.00X.
The full list of fixes is in the attachment.

As promised, this update includes support for spatial audio, "which will provide surround sound for any connected headset". And in the coming weeks, Pixel Buds Pro will receive a separate update that will enable spatial audio with head tracking.

🔗 Android Security Bulletin

🔗 Pixel Update Bulletin

🔗 OTAs

🔗 Factory Images

🔗 Pixel Phone Help

Google News | En

Android Auto's redesign starts rolling out from today.

The new split screen layout adapts to different screen sizes. Maps are now closer to the driver's seat. The new media player card almost replicates Android 13 and features a seekable progress bar, while the added quick launcher lets you quickly access recently-used apps.

Google Assistant now provides smart suggestions including missed call reminders, quick arrival time sharing and instant access to music or podcasts. On-screen shortcuts speed up message replies and calling favorite contacts.

And, starting with the latest Pixel and Samsung phones, you can soon make calls using WhatsApp with Android Auto.

🔗 Google Blog

Google News | En

Google is expanding the ability to share digital car keys.

Right now, Pixel and iPhone owners already have the ability to share digital car keys to make it easier to give trusted friends and family access to the car. And soon this feature will appear on Samsung phones, while Xiaomi owners will be able to use and exchange digital car keys closer to the end of this year.

The digital car key is already supported on BMW and will roll out to other car brands.

🔗 Google Blog

Google News | En