Google's Android 14 Release Delayed to October: What You Need to Know

Politics, News Sept. 21, 2023, 5:10 a.m.

Google delays Android 14 release to October, introduces Android 14 QPR1 Beta 1 for Pixel users. Notable exclusions include Pixel 4a 5G and Pixel 5. Updates may take up to a week.

In recent times, the anticipation among Pixel users for Android 14 has been palpable. However, it appears that Google's plans have shifted, as the release of the next major OS upgrade has been postponed until October, contrary to the usual August release schedule. Despite this delay, Google is forging ahead with its Android 14 beta program, and today marks the arrival of Android 14 QPR1 Beta 1.

In addition to its routine monthly security patch releases, Google follows a quarterly update cadence that focuses on delivering substantial user-facing changes. Each year, the company unveils a major Android version update and follows it up with three releases aimed at introducing new features before the next major OS update. The beta program that commences today is centered around Android 14's first Quarterly Platform Release, or QPR1, which is slated to make its official debut in just under three months as part of the December 2023 Pixel Feature Drop.

To facilitate this rollout, Google has updated its Android 14 beta downloads page to incorporate the new version. Users have already reported the availability of the over-the-air (OTA) update. This means that if you were enrolled in the Android 14 beta program but wish to abstain from participating in the QPR1 beta, you must opt out of the beta program and decline today's update to ensure you receive the stable build of Android 14 when it becomes available.

The current build bears the version number U1B1.230908 and features a security patch dated September 2023. While the release notes highlight several bug fixes, it is not expected that many of the new Feature Drop functionalities will be fully operational in this version. Nevertheless, Google has singled out Android 14's user override settings for large-screen devices as a feature that it encourages users to test.

It's worth noting that the Pixel 4a 5G and Pixel 5 are not eligible for this update. The Pixel 4a 5G was Google's 2020 flagship phone and was the last to utilize a standard Qualcomm processor, rather than Google's customized Tensor chip. Consequently, it was only guaranteed 3 years of software updates, in contrast to the 5-year support window for the Pixel 6 and newer devices, or the rumored extended support for the Pixel 8. While the Pixel 5 is still assured of updates until October, the Pixel 4a 5G's support extends until November 2023, and it will continue to receive stable channel updates until then.

As Android 14 QPR1 Beta 1 begins its rollout, it may take up to a week for it to reach all users, contingent on your device type and carrier. If you are not yet enrolled in the beta program, you can easily do so. Once enrolled, navigate to Settings, then System, and finally System Update. Simply tap the "Check for update" button to determine if the new version is available. If it's not, Google's Android Flash Tool can be used to manually sideload the OTA or flash the factory images.

In summary, Android 14 enthusiasts can now dive into the QPR1 Beta 1, although the wait for the stable release continues. Google is committed to delivering a feature-rich and secure Android experience, even if it means shifting its release schedule. Keep an eye out for the update, and if you can't wait, explore the option of joining the beta program to get a taste of what's to come./In recent times, the anticipation among Pixel users for Android 14 has been palpable. However, it appears that Google's plans have shifted, as the release of the next major OS upgrade has been postponed until October, contrary to the usual August release schedule. Despite this delay, Google is forging ahead with its Android 14 beta program, and today marks the arrival of Android 14 QPR1 Beta 1.