Future Android Update Could Dramatically Improve Your Webcams, But There’s a Problem – Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOG), Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL)

THE Android 14 QPR3 Beta 2.1 update from Alphabet Inc.‘S GOOG GOOGLE Google has introduced a number of user-oriented changes despite its main focus being bug fixes.

What happened: 9to5Google reported Friday that the new Android update, while primarily aimed at fixing software bugs, brought several user-oriented changes. One of the key changes includes the introduction of a high-quality mode for webcams, which could result in higher power consumption and device heating.

Android 14 makes it easier to use your phone’s top camera as a webcam, but there’s a problem. The built-in webcam feature offers significantly lower video quality than Apple’s Continuity Camera and even third-party webcam apps on the same Android device. This suggests that Google has prioritized battery life over image quality with Android functionality, which is a disadvantage for users who need high-quality video even for short calls.

Here’s what’s new –

• A new “high quality mode” has been identified for Android webcams (since Android 15 DP2), which potentially improves image quality but impacts battery life.
• The update improves widget suggestions, which are now accompanied by app icons.
• Change Gboard’s vibration settings.

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The source further revealed that this update can be quickly installed on various Pixel devices, including Pixel 5a, Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, Pixel 8 and Pixel 8Pro. However, Google continues to temporarily disable downloads for OTA images in Beta 2.1 due to an ongoing sideloading issue since Beta 2.

Users are encouraged to check regularly for updates and share their experiences on the 9to5Google post. A detailed analysis of the new features and changes in Android 14 QPR3 Beta 2.1 is expected soon.

Because matter: The launch of this update comes at a critical time for Android. Reports in February showed Android’s U.S. market share declining as Apple Inc. AAPL continued to dominate with a 64% share, largely driven by the launch of the iPhone 15.

Additionally, one in eight Android users reportedly switched to iPhones in 2023. This trend has been attributed to users’ preference for older iPhone models over newer Android devices, underscoring value over cutting-edge technology . The introduction of user-friendly features in the new Android update could be seen as a strategic move to counter this trend and regain the lost market share.

Image credits – Shutterstock

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