New Google Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet features discovered in Android 14 Developer Preview 2

Last week, Google released Android 14 Developer Preview 2 (DP2), the second public Android 14 build. While Google outlined various changes from DP1, 9to5Google and @Za_Raczke have discovered more new code snippets that point to the impending release of two larger screen devices. Currently, Google is expected to announce the Pixel Fold and the Pixel Tablet; the company has only confirmed the latter so far. The former has surfaced numerous times over the last few months though, with a launch window and launch colour/storage options the most recent details revealed about Google's first foldable smartphone.

Currently, Google is rumoured to have prepared the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet for a summer release, likely three or four months before the Pixel 8 Pro and the finalisation of Android 14. As a result, the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet will arrive running Android 13, not Android 14. Still, they should quickly receive Android 14 alongside the rest of Google's product stack. Purportedly, Google is working to deliver an improved desktop mode that comes closer to the window management functionality that desktop operating systems offer, such as resizable app windows that are also freely positionable. These windows will come with new buttons at the top too, making it easier to take close apps, adjust their size or take screenshots.

Additionally, Android 14 DP2 contains references to face unlock support on the Pixel Fold. However, Google will only bring the feature to the device's cover display rather than the cover and foldable interior displays. Meanwhile, the Pixel tablet will mimic the Galaxy S23 Ultra by allowing people to take written notes with a stylus without unlocking the device. Furthermore, the same beta build includes 'Dual Shade', a name for overhauled quick settings and notifications UI. Google is likely to showcase these changes in May at I/O 2023, as well as the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet themselves.  

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