After the unexpected release of the pixel drop on 25th July, Google has now announced to release of an Android Canary Build for Users. It is a whole new update cycle for the users.
Google announced it on an Android Developer Blog. Now developers can access early stage android builds throughout the years. The goal is to provide early and consistent access to development features.
Android Canary
So basically the word “Canary” in software development means the experimental version of a program. Now the question that comes to mind is “What is Android Canary?, previously we used to get two developer preview updates targeted to developers before starting the beta cycle but now with this new Android Canary we can get a new updated channel for developers. It is similar to what Apple does with iOS.
It is like a pathway for developers to build for Android phones. Google says that the structure of the current developer preview approach has inherent limitations. The designated Android release, they were only available during the earliest part of the particular cycle.
The closest program internally is Chrome Canary which is constantly evolving, hence the obvious naming convention. This release will allow you to try new features and planned changes in the early stages of development. The canary release channel is going to run in parallel with the beta program.
Approved Devices
The devices that are eligible for this new launch are all the pixel phones and tablets from Pixel 6 and onwards including Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel Fold.
How To Install?
Well, the only way now to install the Android canary is by using the Android Flash tool with no OTAA images available for download.
When you install it your device can receive future updates but the first install will require a factory reset so do not forget to backup your device data.
New Features
The first change that you will notice is the date and time info on the lock screen which will be now located under the clock. The weather icons will be back to the 3D designs, and the background of the notification pill will be back again to the solid background color.
There is also a new shortcut that you can add to your lock screen. On the home screen, at a glance, a bigger font will be used as compared to the previous one. So, you will also see many other changes by downloading the new canary.
My Opinion
The new Android canary is an amazing and unique opportunity to try out new future updates. Hopefully Android Canary is not just available to just Pixels. This update will give more rapid access to developers in Android features.
