Android 12 Go edition brings Pixel-like smart features to budget phones

Android 12 Go edition has been announced for entry-level smartphones, it brings some Android 12 features.

Android 12 Go Edition features detailed: Smart translation features, improved privacy features, and more.

Android 12 Go edition is here and as expected, it brings some of the regular Android 12 features to more affordable and entry-level Android phones. The focus with the Go edition is on improving overall performance and privacy experience rather than adding more visual flair. Google says that app will open faster and there will be some smart features to play with.

Some of the features seem to be inspired from what the JioPhone Next offered with its software, especially the multilingual translation features. Google does not reveal an exact timeline for the release of Android 12 Go edition and there's no mention of which companies will use it initially. All Google says is that this watered down version of Android 12 will be available in 2022.

Android 12 Go edition features

There are six major upgrades over Android 11 Go edition coming to the newer versions. Here's what you will see in a few months.

Faster app launches

The Android 12 Go edition will enable faster app launches on eligible smartphones. With a new API in place, Google says that developers can make their apps launch 30 percent faster than before. Apps won't show a black screen before they load up.

Better battery life

Android 12 Go edition

Android 12 Go edition

Android 12 Go edition brings app hibernation from the mainstream version of Android. Hence, your phone will now put those apps to sleep that aren't in use lately. Google says that this could be helpful for devices with lower storage capacity. Additionally, Files Go app will allow you to recover deleted files within 30 days from the bin.

App sharing

Users will be able to share APK files of apps to other Android 12 Go edition devices nearby via Nearby Sharing. Google says that this will help save data required for downloading large updates and new apps.

Profile switching

Android 12 Go edition will allow for quick profile switching from the lockscreen. Bring down the notification tray and tap on the guest profile to quickly switch before sharing your device with someone else.

New translation features

Android 12 Go edition

Android 12 Go edition

Similar to the Pragati OS on JioPhone Next, Android 12 Go edition will offer translate and dictation features within arms reach. However, these features can be accessed directly from the Recents windows, where you can switch between multiple apps for multitasking. A shortcut to take quick screenshots will also be available in the Recents window.

Privacy controls

Google is also bringing Privacy dashboard from Android 12, which means users will be able to see which apps are accessing what sensors and how many tines. The privacy indicator will show real-time notifications of the device accessing mic and cameras.