Google recently introduced a preview of Android 14 Beta 3 for Pixel devices, as well as Android 14 for TVs. With this update, Google has decided to stop using Android 13 for TV devices, which will no longer be recommended in the Android Studio emulator menu. Despite the recent update for Chromecast with Google TV still running on Android 12, it seems that Google has abandoned its plans to update all Android TV and Google TV devices to Android 13.

Features of Android TV 14

As reported by Mishaal Rahman, there are a few key changes to the Android 14 TV Beta code. First, the setup dialogs in Android TV 14 now have a redesigned design specifically designed for TV devices. Also, the accessibility option has been upgraded to a high-level menu item in settings, making it easily accessible for users.

Power and power settings have also been updated and moved to Settings > System under About. Additionally, the Power Saver option has been renamed to Sleep Timer.

Android TV 14 now offers enhanced accessibility options with the Services option at the top, called Screen Readers. There’s also a new shortcut for adjusting text scale and settings for bold text. Various other settings have been reorganized into their respective categories. A new option called “format selection” has appeared in the display settings on Android TV 14. It allows users to always choose whether to convert content to formats such as Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, HLG or SDR.

Power efficiency is a focus in Android TV 14 where four power modes are included: low, medium, high and unlimited. Switching between power modes can optimize power consumption when the TV is not in use, depending on the network connection level. Adjusted the screen frame rate settings and the ‘continuous’ option has now been renamed to ‘Always’. This option makes the frame rate match the content. In addition, Android TV 14 notifies the user if the connected screen does not support smooth content transitions.

Color correction options were introduced in the Accessibility section of Android TV 14. Users can access color correction options and adjust them to their liking. Certain view options will only be visible if the assembly supports low power standby and other relevant DeviceConfig flags are enabled.

Android TV 14 allows users to select the desired dynamic range for system, pass-through or forcing format conversion according to their preferences. Looking ahead, Android TV 14 is getting ready to enable call notifications from supported apps on the TV screen with app-specific settings. Also, the Google TV launcher may include a Headset option that makes it easy to connect Bluetooth headphones without having to scroll through settings.

Users will also be able to create shortcuts for their favorite programs on Android TV 14, allowing them to open certain programs with a dedicated button on the remote. They can also easily browse and switch between inputs of TV or other connected devices with the same dedicated button.