Finally, the Android 11 new version is out here. This year, Google did not hold the annual I/O and the company still went ahead and released Android 11 without much fanfare. While the final version of Android is set to roll out in August, those who are keen on trying out the New and Improved Features of Android 11 can download the public beta of the new android version.
An Android 11 public beta is a finished version that users can test before Google rolls out the final one. The goal of this Android 11 public beta is to collect feedback from regular consumers and developers, which gives Google some time to sort out the issues before it starts releasing the final version.
Which Android Phones Support the Android 11 Public Beta?
Before downloading the Android 11 public beta, ensure compatibility with your phone. Currently, only Pixel smartphones support the New and Improved Features of Android 11. Models like Pixel 2, 3, 3a, or 4 can enroll in the Android 11 beta program.
What are the features of the Android 11 beta version?
As per Google’s release notes, Android 11 centers on “people’s control and privacy.” Here are the Android 11 feature highlights:
New Media Player widget:
Now, in Android 11, there is an option to add the widget to the notification bar that let’s control media playback with play, pause, and skip tracks options. Even there is an option to open the relevant media app directly from the notification shade, which is similar to the playback controls that are part of the iOS control centre on iPhones.
New Screens support:
This is mainly for developers, but it has some implications for end-users. You may have noticed a kind of display getting their way onto the foldable Android screens devices to panels with cut-outs for the front camera. Android 11 is appending tools that let app makers optimize their software for these different displays.
New icon shape:
In the early build of Android 11 we have seen new icon shapes associated with a vessel, TaperedRect, and Pebble. It is unclear whether those different shapes enable different functions or if the change is just cosmetic.
Screen recording:
Now, Google also introduced screen recording to Android 11 in the left corner of the screen as opposed to a notification. Android 11’s new menu also adds a button for taking and sharing screenshots and selecting text.
Do not disturb and notification tweaks:
When we talk about refining permissions, if you use, do not disturb feature in Android 11. In this, there are broader customization options that let you pick the apps or contacts permitted to trigger notifications. Google also plans more accessible to understand presets for alerting and silent notifications, which give more authority over how your phone gets your attention.
New power button Menu:
Now, in Android 11 public beta, Google’s OS features a device controls menu that occurs when you press the power button on your Android phone. From this menu, access options for payment cards, smart home device controls, and other settings.
One time permissions:
Android 11 will offer fine-tune permissions with Only this time option, which gives apps access to somethings like location tracking, the microphone, and the camera. In this option, when you stop using the app, the permissions will expire. 
Dedicated chat notifications:
Messages from any texting app such as Facebook messenger or any other third-party apps will appear in their own section at the top of the notification shade just below quick settings. You can take a specific action directly by opening the conversation as a bubble that creates a chat shortcut on your phone’s home screen or set a reminder. A long press of the conversation notification lets you set it as a priority. Doing so places the sender’s avatar on your phone’s lock screen. You will also have the option of allowing that person to break through any “Do Not Disturb” restrictions you have set.
Screenshot Changes:
Screenshots taken in Android 11 now appear in the lower-left corner of the screen as engaged to a notification. Android 11’s menu adds buttons for making and sharing screenshots in interest in choosing the text.
5G Support:
Google is now making sure that its mobile devices are taking advantage of faster speed and lower latency that 5G promises. In Android 11, a dynamic Meterednes API will check whether 5G cellular connection is unmetered if your phone can get higher resolution images and videos.
Call screening improvements:
Google adds API that will allow call screening apps to do better handle robocalls.
Faster refresh screen rates:
In Android 11, apps and games have preferred refresh rates, which will enable games to benefit from phones to displays that sports refresh rate, enhancing the gaming experience.
What will be the Android 11 named?
So far, Google’s operating system names were dessert-themed before Pie and Oreo. However, this changed with Android Q or 10, as Google opted for a new approach for its mobile OS due to the taxing nature of Android Q desserts. Explore the evolution with the New and Improved Features of Android 11.
Whatever the reason may be, the current version of Android is simply Android 10. And there is no reason to believe Android 11 is going to go back to the dessert naming convention, and it looks like the era of dessert name is truly over.
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