How lengthy does it take a fledgling {hardware} startup to ship a significant Android replace to its first smartphone? Within the case of Nothing, we’re taking a look at a number of months and a flip of the calendar into 2023. As famous by Android Authority, the corporate has confirmed that its spectacular Phone 1 will obtain Android 13 “within the first half of 2023.” That might disappoint at the least some patrons who’d hoped the near-stock Android system would get the newest model someday this year.
“Earlier than releasing, we wish to fantastic tune the software program improve with Nothing’s {hardware},” the corporate’s assertion reads. Android 13 was launched for Google’s Pixel lineup final week, with Samsung, OnePlus, Motorola, Sony, Xiaomi, Asus, and different firms planning to roll out the replace “later this year.” So, by holding off until 2023, Nothing is placing itself behind the pack. Right here’s the complete assertion:
We’re at all times working arduous to enhance the Phone 1 consumer expertise. To make sure this, working system updates can be made out there for normal obtain. With reference to Android 13, this can be launching for Phone 1 customers within the first half of 2023. Earlier than releasing, we wish to fantastic tune the software program improve with Nothing’s {hardware}. We’ll you’ll want to preserve you up to date with additional data.
Final week, Nothing co-founder and CEO Carl Pei tipped off that the Phone 1 won’t be seeing Android 13 anytime quickly when he responded to a query on the topic with a complete nonanswer.
Coming after final year’s important redesign, Android 13 is essentially a refinement launch that improves day-to-day efficiency and stability. Thus far, it’s gotten excessive reward from Pixel homeowners based mostly on what I’ve seen throughout social media and Reddit. Many are reporting smoother animations and a greater general expertise.
However there are some new options included, similar to per-app language choice, a revamped media participant, assist for Bluetooth Low Power, and the power to stream messages from Android apps on to a consumer’s Chromebook.
Amongst Android cellphone makers, OnePlus is usually the quickest firm aside from Google to roll out huge Android releases — for its newest flagship, at the least. The wait might be longer for older units. Samsung has regularly picked up the tempo throughout its lineup. However in case you’ve obtained, say, a Motorola or Sony cellphone, particular replace timing might be one thing of a crapshoot.
(*13*)It may at all times be worse: Qualcomm’s Smartphone for Snapdragon Insiders remains to be caught on Android 11 regardless of its $1,500 price ticket, with updates now coming so few and much between that individuals who took an opportunity on shopping for the cellphone are satisfied it’s been deserted.