March Feature Drop
In addition to the changes introduced by Android 12L, this month also coincides with the March Feature Drop for Pixel phones.
On tablets and foldables, Android 12L adds a taskbar (up to six apps) to quickly initiate split-screen and switch between applications when multitasking:
You can also drag-and-drop any app from the taskbar to enter split-screen mode so you can do two things at once. You can watch a YouTube video while you scan the news, or search for accommodations for an upcoming trip in a Chrome browser while you view its location in Google Maps.
The Recent screen also gets a grid view, while there’s a two-column layout for the Lock screen and notifications. This is meant to “give you more space to view and swipe away your notifications.” The Quick Settings toggles (or clock) appear at the left and notifications to the right.
The Settings app and other parts of Android are also getting tablet and foldable optimizations. On the home screen, the search field in some configurations might appear in the dock alongside the row of apps.
When setting up a new device, you’ll also be able to see more information with a two-column layout. And, you’ll be able to make changes to features in your Settings without having to go in and out of each section. Let’s say you’re looking to change the wallpaper on your device — select “Wallpaper & style” from the navigation panel and make your pick on the side, all in one view.
Samsung, Lenovo, and Microsoft are planning to release Android 12L updates for their tablets and foldables “starting later this year.” Google commits to adding “more features and functionalities to help you make the most of your larger screen devices in Android 13 and beyond.”
Android 12L Pixel launch
The Android 12L launch starts today for the Pixel 3a, Pixel 3a XL, Pixel 4, Pixel 4 XL, Pixel 4a, Pixel 4a 5G, Pixel 5, and Pixel 5a. It’s rolling out to the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro later this month. Visit Settings > System > System update and tap “Check for update” if the OTA hasn’t already appeared on your device.
