The first Android 13 Developer Preview gives developers a chance to get an early look at all the changes Google has in store.
A lot of manufacturers have yet to roll out their Android 12 update, but Google, meanwhile, is working intensively on Android 13. It is already making the first preview version available to developers. Only condition: you need a Google Pixel to get started with it. More specifically, these models:
- Pixel 4 and 4 XL
- Pixel 4a and 4a (5G)
- Pixel 5 and 5a
- Pixel 6 and 6 Pro
You can download the latest version here. Those who would like more information about Android 13 as a developer can go here.
We like to emphasize that this version is specifically for developers. Google has scheduled several developer previews in February and March. Starting in April, beta versions are expected that are already slightly more stable for broader testing. Around June or July, the search giant hopes to have Android 13 stable.
New features
Developers can expect lots of new privacy features and new tools to code more productively. Android 13 also puts more emphasis on further optimization for tablets, folding devices and Chromebooks. Apps should make better use of that extra space in the future.
By making Android 13 available now, Google is giving developers more time to test the new features and APIs. You can test all your current apps for compatibility to be ready in time when Android 13 is widely rolled out later this year.