Android 14 Beta 5.3 Released with Improvements for Pixel Devices

Great news for Pixel device users! Google has just dropped Android 14 Beta 5.3, and it’s packed with fixes and improvements. This latest update aims to tackle call issues and smooth out some user interface glitches, making your Pixel experience even better.

Android 14 has been in the testing phase since February, and while it was originally scheduled to finish beta testing in July, it seems like they’re taking a little extra time to get things just right. Now, Google has rolled out Beta 5.3 with a build number of UPB5.230623.009, featuring a security patch level from September 2023.

So, what’s in the box? Well, Google’s release notes spill the beans. They’ve focused heavily on enhancing the user interface, especially for the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet. But that’s not all – they’ve also fixed some calling issues on various other Pixel devices. Here’s a rundown of the improvements:

• Apps won’t crash after a CallStyle notification anymore.
• Call and carrier service interruptions have been sorted out.
• The system is now more efficient in handling CPU restrictions for background apps.
• They’ve tackled issues with SurfaceFlinger that were affecting system performance.
• On Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet devices, the taskbar won’t mysteriously vanish while you’re using it.
• Animated wallpapers will now launch without any stutter on these devices.
• Customizing the Home screen on Pixel Fold is now a breeze with a properly aligned interface layout.
• The lock screen clock won’t flicker during animations on Pixel Fold devices.
• General system stability and performance have been improved.

But wait, there’s more! Google has also released the Android Security Bulletin for September, and it gives us a sneak peek into the under-the-hood changes. They’ve patched up 20 high and critically severe CVEs (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures) in the September 1 patches, along with another 12 CVEs specific to certain vendors in the September 5 set. The worst of these vulnerabilities could have allowed a remote attacker to execute code on your device without any interaction from you.

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If you’re rocking a Pixel device from the 4a 5G onwards, you’re eligible for this update, and it’s already started rolling out. But be patient; sometimes it takes up to a week to reach everyone, depending on your device type and carrier.

If you’re itching to get your hands on the latest Android goodness right away, there’s a manual method too. You can use the Android Flash Tool to sideload the OTA (Over The Air) update or flash the factory images. It’s surprisingly straightforward and will get you up to date in no time.

So, whether you’re toting a Pixel 4a 5G, Pixel 6 Pro, or anything in between, Android 14 Beta 5.3 with the September 2023 security patch is here to elevate your Pixel experience. Happy updating!