The little issues add up on large-screen gadgets
It is clear that considered one of Google’s principal objectives with Android 14 has been to enhance the pill expertise — simply in time for the discharge of the corporate’s new large-screen lineup, the Pixel Fold and Pixel Pill. In earlier variations, we have discovered a large new checklist of {hardware} keyboard shortcuts, help for touchpad gestures, and a brand new App Pairs characteristic for computerized split-screen multitasking, amongst different high quality of life enhancements for large-screen gadgets. Now, Android 14 Beta 3 has introduced a delicate change for individuals who use an exterior mouse with their pill.
As noticed by Android skilled Mishaal Rahman, the mouse pointer has acquired a makeover within the newest beta construct. In Android 13 and previous variations, it was a really angular arrow that regarded quite a bit just like the pointer on Home windows, macOS, and even Google’s personal Chrome OS. Now, it is a extra playful paper airplane form with rounded corners.
Mouse pointers in Android 13 (left) and Android 14 (proper); by way of Mishaal Rahman
In shedding the trailing stem, Google was in a position to fatten up the triangular portion of the mouse pointer by just a few pixels whereas reducing the general footprint. It’s kind of extra becoming with the bigger contact targets in a typical Android app’s UI, and the rounded corners are consistent with a few of Google’s latest Materials You icons.
True, it is a small change, however this stuff add up. Toss in different ending touches like an improved Battery Saver, new charging indicator, and the resurrection of a beloved Android 11 characteristic, and Google’s upcoming Android 14 launch is shaping as much as be a giant one from a UX standpoint.