Android 12L is available in beta, here’s how to download it

Google has launched the deployment of the first beta of Android 12 L. The redesigned version for large screens of its operating system is first available for Pixel phones, as usual. We explain how to download them and what to expect.

During the Android Dev Summit 2021 which took place at the end of last October, Google lifted the veil on Android 12 L. It is not really a question here of a new operating system, but rather ofan optimized version for large screen devices – understand tablets and other foldable smartphones, as well as PCs running Chrome OS. No big news on the horizon, then, but still something to be curious about.

Starting today, it’s possible to get your hands on the Android 12L beta, the first of three planned before its final launch. The opportunity to take a quick look at the additions made by Google. Regarding the optimizations for large screens, we will have to wait a bit. Indeed, only Pixel smartphones are currently eligible to its installation.

How to download the Android 12L beta

If you want to install the operating system, the first thing to do is to check that you have a compatible device. In early November, Google unveiled the smartphones that will be able to receive the beta. Without surprise, we only find pixels, here is the complete list:

If you don’t own any of these smartphones, don’t panic. This list will grow significantly by the time of final launch, and will include devices from other manufacturers. In addition, we already know all the Samsung smartphones and tablets that will be able to receive the update:

So let’s go back to beta. If you have one of the Pixels mentioned above, here is the procedure to download and install the Android 12L beta:

• Go to this link
• Join the Android beta program 12L
• Select your smartphone in the list of eligible devices
• Download system image corresponding. You can find the complete list on this link
• Start the installation

What are the new features of Android 12L?

As said above, Android 12L is not a revolution but rather an optimization of the standard operating system. No big new features to the program, although there are some notable additions. The new task bar, among other things, will greatly facilitate navigation on large screens, in particular by pinning frequently used apps.

On the same subject: Android 12 – release date, compatible smartphones, news, all about the update

In general, the display is greatly improved by letting the applications occupy all the available space, in addition to providing developers with new tools for customize their interfaces. The operating system itself has been redesigned, by arranging the notification screens, the control center or the lock screen in two columns, again to facilitate navigation and multitasking.

However, there will be none of this in this first beta, it being reserved for Pixel smartphones. This does not mean that the OS is useless, on the contrary. This one is coming fix some bugs, in addition to integrating the security patch of December 2021. The overall experience is also optimized. Other new features will be added during the next betas.