Android 12L is a tablet-focused version of the Android operating system. It is an update to Android 12 with features that will make tablets and foldables simpler and easier to use. It was only one month after Android 12 was made stable that Google unveiled the new OS in October of that year. It saw a few developer previews and beta builds before being released to Pixel phones.
If you’ve ever wanted to see the best of Android on your tablet or foldable phone, then this new version of the operating system, Android 12L, is what you’ve been looking for. Make sure to read to the end of this article to understand why and how Android 12L is different from Android 12.
Because Android is primarily developed for phones, it can be clumsy on larger devices — or just not utilise the extra space best. Android 12L, then, is Android 12 with some large-screen changes and a few exclusive features that don’t function well on phones. It’s a lot like Apple’s iPadOS, which it developed as a distinct operating system from its iOS operating system.
There aren’t many tablet-optimised apps available for Android on tablets, and this is something that the new Android 12L hopes to solve in some way.
Features of Android 12L
Since Android 12L is merely a version tailored for large-screen smartphones, it shares many of the same features as Android 12. However, some alterations to the design and functionality were necessitated as a result.
- A notification shade with two columns
In Android 12L, the notification drop-down features two columns instead of one, with quick settings on the left and notifications on the right. This maximizes the use of the extra space available.
- An entirely revamped lock screen interface
The lock screen, like the home screen, shows information in two columns. If you have a pattern or PIN lock set up, this will be shown at the side of the screen to make it easier to get to. If you want the lock on the other side, then simply tap that side and it will jump across.
- Improved multitasking capabilities
There’s a new taskbar at the bottom of the screen that may be accessed by long-pressing on the screen. Having the app shortcuts displayed when it’s on the home screen or recent apps screen is a time-saving feature.
In addition to dragging and dropping an app from the taskbar, you may use a new ‘Split’ action in the overview to initiate split-screen mode with a tap. There are motion controls that allow you to scroll through recent apps or return to the home screen. There should be a noticeable improvement in performance while using Android 12L on tablets and other large-screen devices.
- Apps that are more visually appealing
Many Android apps aren’t made for tablets, which can make them look bad or make them feel slow when used on a bigger screen. Google has improved compatibility mode in Android 12L, which means that even if an app isn’t optimised for your display, it should look better than it now does.
The aspect ratio, transparency of the status bar, and rounded corner appearance can all be customized by device manufacturers when an app is letterboxed for mobile devices. The changes to compatibility mode should also make it more stable, which should make it run better.
Android 12L will not only improve the appearance of apps on large-screen devices, but it will also assist you in finding the best apps for large screens by highlighting apps that are optimized for your device in the Google Play Store. Apps that aren’t optimized will also be flagged on the listing page.
Android 12L comes with a limited number of new features. As the new OS’s betas continue to come out, we expect to see many more features.
