Google during its I/O 2021 Developers conference launched the first public beta for its Android 12 operating system. The company has now released its second beta build for Pixel users. The second public beta brings in a number of privacy features, which were originally announced at I/O 2021.
Android 12: Second beta build
The first notable change introduced with the second beta build is that the user interface now has a lot more contrast to it.
Apart from this, the update brings in multiple privacy changes including the introduction of the privacy dashboard, dedicated microphone toggles and more.
Privacy dashboard is an overview screen to show you what information has been accessed and which apps accessed it last. It will also consist of explanations as to why these apps accessed the permissions. The privacy dashboard will be located inside of the Settings panel of the device.
The dedicated microphone toggles will allow users to disable the software from accessing the microphones or cameras. You will be able to grant access to the apps manually using the quick toggles. Additionally, indicators will now show up inside of the status bar while an app is using the camera or microphone.
There is also a new notification pop-up set for when an app is trying to copy or paste information to or from your clipboard.
The second beta build also adds in a new internet panel, which has replaced the traditional Wi-Fi controls. A single tap on the Internet option would bring up a list of available and nearby Wi-Fi connections, including toggles for mobile data connections. Long pressing it opens the new Internet settings screen.
Availability
Android 12 Beta 2 is currently rolling out to the following devices:
- Google Pixel 3
- Google Pixel 3 XL
- Google Pixel 3a
- Google Pixel 3a XL
- Google Pixel 4
- Google Pixel 4 XL
- Google Pixel 4a
- Google Pixel 4a 5G
- Google Pixel 5
Other OEM’s taking part in the Android 12 Beta include OnePlus, Asus, iQOO, Oppo, Realme, TCL, Tecno, Xiaomi and ZTE.
