News

Google Accidentally Shipped Android 11 Beta to Some Pixel Owners

Google Pixel 4XL stickers

Google was to launch Android 11 today, but the company called off the event saying “Now is not the time to celebrate.” Before the launch was canceled, Google was to introduce Android 11 today in an online event and ship the Beta 1 to Pixel owners.

However, reports suggest that the company shipped the beta OS to some Pixel 4XL owners, regardless. The beta software tips on what Google developers are currently working on in the next major Android update.

Here are various features spotted in Android 11 beta 1;

App Media Controls to Notifications Panel

Having plenty of notifications on your Android phone from different apps at a go can be a mess to handle and Google is working on something little to improve that. A new option in Android 11 allows Android app developers to move their app’s media controls from the notifications panel into the Quick Settings menu.

New App Icons

App icons are also getting new shapes in Android 11. Currently there are three different types – Vessel, Tapered Rect and Pebble. Here’s what I’m talking about;

https://twitter.com/MishaalRahman/status/1267556796337717250?s=20

New options to control app suggestions

This is also another new change although subtle. It’s also only available in the Pixel Launcher. Google now shows auto-generated app suggestions in the bottom home screen dock. App suggestions provide an easy way to access most used apps instead of cluttering your home screen with many app icons.

Revamped power button menu

Google has also revamped the power button menu in Android 11 including a new “Quick Controls” option for controlling smarthome devices. The usual “Power off” and “Restart” buttons are still available.

You can view more Android 11 related features here.

About author

Alvin Wanjala has been writing about technology for over 2 years(and counting). He writes about different topics in the consumer tech space. He loves streaming music, programming, and gaming during downtimes.
Related posts
GadgetsNews

Samsung Unveils Galaxy A06 and A16 5G in Kenya Starting From Ksh 12,900

GadgetsNews

LG Unveils 2025 QNED evo Lineup

News

Binance’s BNSOL Surpasses $1 Billion in Total Value Locked

News

Check Point Software Announces Leadership Transition: Gil Shwed Becomes Executive Chairman, Nadav Zafrir Appointed CEO