Upon upgrading their smartphones to Android 13, users will encounter an array of new features and enhancements. These include Material You support for third-party app icons, immediate options to disable app notifications, and the ability to schedule dark mode to align with bedtime, among other significant updates. However, to experience these novel Android 13 capabilities, one must first install the update. It’s important to note that not every Android device is currently capable of supporting Android 13, and some may never be.
Why the Delay in Android 13 Rollouts for Some Devices?
Android stands out as a distinctive operating system, developed by Google. Although Google is the architect of Android and its updates, the version of Android that arrives on most devices is not Google’s vanilla version. Instead, once Google unveils a new Android version, such as Android 13, smartphone manufacturers adapt this update into their customized versions, known as skins. For instance, Samsung offers “One UI,” OnePlus presents “OxygenOS,” and Asus delivers “ZenUI,” to name a few. These skins modify Android to better suit specific devices and ecosystems, yet they all derive from the same base Android version. Versions like OneUI 5.0 and OxygenOS 13 are examples of Android 13 adaptations, incorporating all new features introduced by Google.
Despite Google’s efforts to hasten Android adoption among various smartphone manufacturers in recent years, progress remains slow. The most reliable method to promptly receive the latest Android version is by purchasing a Pixel, Google’s own smartphone line.
Google Pixel Phones Compatible with Android 13
The roster of Pixel devices that Google supports with Android 13 is commendable, though it excludes some capable models. Notably, the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3a have been phased out of support, thus will not be updated to Android 13. However, for those possessing a Pixel 4 or later model, the update remains accessible:
- Pixel 4: The Google Pixel 4 is a smartphone that features a compact design, a 5.7-inch OLED display, and Motion Sense capabilities, allowing for gesture controls without touching the screen. It was Google’s first device to support secure face unlock and introduced a dual-camera setup on the back, enhancing photography capabilities, especially in low light conditions. Powered by the Snapdragon 855 processor, it offers smooth performance, though its battery life has been a point of critique. The Pixel 4 stands out for its pure Android experience and timely updates directly from Google.
- Pixel 4 XL: An enhanced version of the Pixel 4, the Pixel 4 XL boasts a larger 6.3-inch OLED screen and a more robust battery, addressing one of the main criticisms of its smaller sibling. It shares the same innovative Motion Sense technology and advanced facial recognition system. The Pixel 4 XL also features a dual-camera system on the back, including a telephoto lens, making it a versatile choice for photography enthusiasts. Its Snapdragon 855 chipset ensures a responsive user experience, and being a Pixel device, it benefits from direct software updates from Google.
- Pixel 4a: The Google Pixel 4a is celebrated for delivering an exceptional camera and a comprehensive Google experience in an affordable package. This device features a 5.81-inch OLED display, making it comfortably compact, and includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, a rarity in modern smartphones. Powered by the Snapdragon 730G processor, it handles daily tasks with ease. The Pixel 4a maintains the Pixel line’s reputation for stellar photography, despite having just a single rear camera. Its lightweight design and plastic back contribute to its durability, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious consumers.
- Pixel 4a 5G: Building on the foundation of the Pixel 4a, the Pixel 4a 5G introduces faster connectivity and improved performance thanks to the Snapdragon 765G chipset and 5G support. It features a larger 6.2-inch OLED display and adds an ultra-wide camera to the rear setup, enhancing its photographic flexibility. The device strikes a balance between affordability and advanced features, offering a compelling option for users seeking 5G capabilities without the flagship price. The Pixel 4a 5G continues the tradition of offering a clean, bloatware-free Android experience with guaranteed updates.
- Pixel 5: The Google Pixel 5 is designed to offer a premium experience, with a 6-inch OLED display that supports HDR10+ and a metal body that is both sleek and water-resistant. It marks Google’s commitment to 5G and sustainable materials, featuring a 100% recycled aluminum enclosure. The Pixel 5 is powered by the Snapdragon 765G processor, optimizing power efficiency and performance. It enhances its photography capabilities with a dual-camera system, including a wide and ultra-wide lens, and introduces new software features like Night Sight in Portrait Mode. It’s a testament to Google’s vision of a balanced, feature-rich phone.
- Pixel 5a 5G: The Pixel 5a 5G offers a robust design, including water and dust resistance, making it a durable choice for everyday use. It features a 6.34-inch OLED display, the largest among the a-series, and maintains the Pixel’s renowned camera quality, with a dual rear camera setup that excels in low light conditions. Powered by the Snapdragon 765G chipset, it ensures smooth performance and 5G connectivity. The Pixel 5a 5G’s battery life is a significant improvement over its predecessors, making it a reliable companion for users who prioritize longevity and connectivity.
- Pixel 6: The Google Pixel 6 represents a major design overhaul with its distinctive camera bar and vibrant color options. It introduces Google’s custom Tensor chipset, optimizing AI and machine learning tasks for a more personalized and efficient user experience. The Pixel 6 features a 6.4-inch OLED display with a high refresh rate for smoother scrolling and gaming. Its advanced dual-camera system includes a new sensor for improved low-light performance and more detailed photos. The device also boasts enhanced security features and a long-lasting battery, setting a new standard for the Pixel lineup.
- Pixel 6 Pro: As the flagship of the series, the Pixel 6 Pro elevates the Pixel experience with a larger 6.7-inch QHD+ OLED display and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. It also introduces a telephoto lens with 4x optical zoom to its camera system, further enhancing its photographic capabilities. Powered by Google’s Tensor processor, the Pixel 6 Pro excels in AI-driven tasks, from voice recognition to photography enhancements. Its refined design, featuring a curved display and premium materials, positions it as a top-tier smartphone. The Pixel 6 Pro also offers exceptional battery life and rapid wireless charging, ensuring it meets the needs of the most demanding users.
- Pixel 6a: The Google Pixel 6a brings the distinctive design and powerful Tensor processor of the Pixel 6 to a more affordable, compact form factor. It features a 6.1-inch OLED display and incorporates the same machine learning and AI capabilities as its higher-end siblings. The Pixel 6a maintains the Pixel tradition of outstanding photography with just a dual-camera setup, leveraging advanced software to produce stunning images. It’s designed to offer a premium smartphone experience at a lower price point, making Google’s latest innovations accessible to a wider audience.
Samsung Galaxy Devices Receiving Android 13 (OneUI 5.0)
Samsung is a close follower of Google in terms of Android update adoption, rolling out new versions with considerable speed. Although there is a waiting period compared to Pixel devices, Samsung tends to prioritize its newer smartphones for the latest updates, with older Galaxy generations potentially receiving updates later.
Recently, Samsung deployed OneUI 5.0 to a range of its newer smartphones, including:
- Galaxy S22 Series: The Samsung Galaxy S22 series, consisting of the S22, S22+, and S22 Ultra, marks a pinnacle in Samsung’s smartphone design and technology. These devices feature dynamic AMOLED displays with exceptional brightness and contrast ratios, ensuring vivid and clear visuals. The S22 Ultra notably reintegrates the beloved S Pen, offering enhanced productivity and creativity options. Powered by the latest Exynos or Snapdragon processors (depending on the region), the series delivers unparalleled performance for gaming and multitasking. With advanced camera setups, the S22 series excels in photography, offering significant improvements in night photography and portrait mode, setting a new benchmark for mobile imaging.
- Galaxy S21 Series: The Samsung Galaxy S21 series, comprising the S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra, introduced a bold new design with a distinctive camera module that seamlessly integrates into the device’s metal frame. The series boasts high refresh rate AMOLED displays, ensuring smooth scrolling and a superior viewing experience. The S21 Ultra stands out with its support for the S Pen, a feature previously exclusive to the Note series. Equipped with powerful processors, these devices handle demanding applications effortlessly. The cameras are a highlight, with the Ultra model featuring a 108MP primary sensor and 100x Space Zoom, making it a favorite among photography enthusiasts.
- Galaxy Note 20 Series: The Samsung Galaxy Note 20 and Note 20 Ultra cater to professionals and creatives who demand power and precision. The Note 20 Ultra, with its expansive 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, offers a 120Hz refresh rate for fluid motion. Both models include the S Pen, renowned for its low-latency writing and drawing, making digital note-taking and sketching more intuitive than ever. The Note 20 series excels in connectivity and multitasking, thanks to its powerful processors and 5G support. The Ultra’s advanced camera system, featuring a 108MP main sensor and laser autofocus, delivers stunning photographic results.
- Galaxy S20 Series: Launching the Samsung Galaxy S20, S20+, and S20 Ultra, Samsung set new standards for flagship smartphones. These devices feature high-resolution Dynamic AMOLED displays with 120Hz refresh rates for smooth visuals. The S20 Ultra is particularly noteworthy for its groundbreaking 108MP primary camera and up to 100x zoom capabilities, pushing the boundaries of mobile photography. Powered by cutting-edge processors, the series offers robust performance and is equipped for 5G connectivity, ensuring fast data speeds. The S20 series also emphasizes sustainability with its large-capacity batteries and power optimization, making it a choice for environmentally conscious users seeking top-tier technology.
A comprehensive list of Galaxy devices is set to be updated to OneUI 5.0 shortly. The latest Galaxy Z Flip and Z Fold models are expected to receive the update imminently, while several devices from Samsung’s Galaxy A and Galaxy M series are slated for updates from December through April.
Vivo iQOO (Origin OS Ocean)
While Vivo’s iQOO line is not available in the US, two of its devices have already been updated to Android 13 via Origin OS Ocean:
- vivo iQOO 11: The vivo iQOO 11 emerges as a powerhouse in the gaming smartphone market, blending high-end specifications with a design that appeals to both gamers and general users. It boasts a cutting-edge Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, ensuring top-tier performance for gaming and multitasking. The device features a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering vibrant colors and smooth visuals. Its triple-camera setup, led by a high-resolution primary sensor, captures stunning photos and videos. The iQOO 11 is also equipped with fast charging technology, significantly reducing downtime. Its distinctive design, incorporating racing stripe motifs, reflects its performance-oriented nature.
- vivo iQOO Neo7: The vivo iQOO Neo7 is designed for tech enthusiasts seeking exceptional performance without breaking the bank. It’s powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9000+ chipset, delivering smooth and responsive gaming experiences. The device features a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a high refresh rate, ensuring crisp and fluid visuals. Its photography capabilities are bolstered by a versatile camera system, capable of producing detailed and vibrant images. The Neo7 supports fast charging, quickly replenishing its generous battery. Its sleek design and build quality make it a standout in the mid-range segment, offering a premium feel at an accessible price point.
Conclusion
At present, the list of smartphones supporting Android 13 is limited but gradually expanding. Samsung has only just begun its update rollouts this month, and OnePlus is currently beta testing OxygenOS 13 for its range of devices. Google has also confirmed that other Android OEMs, including Asus, HMD (Nokia), Motorola, Oppo, Realme, Sharp, Sony, Tecno, vivo, and Xiaomi, are working to introduce Android 13 to their devices within the year, indicating a broader adoption horizon for the operating system’s latest version.