The first Android 12L Developer Preview is now available, having been released on the Lenovo Tab P12 Pro tablet. Developers will be able to access the software through Lenovo’s Developer Preview Program and test out Android 12L before the first Android 12L Beta is available.
The Developer Preview also includes the November Android security patch and Lenovo reiterated that the update would also include APIs for developers to better create experiences in landscape mode.
9to5Google shared a list of other feature highlights and lowlights, noting that developers should expect a lot of bugs and issues because the software is relatively new.
- Copy apps& data’ in OOBE is not supported.
- Fingerprint unlock is not supported
- Face Unlock is not supported
- TOF sensor related function is removed
- Stylus key function is not supported but basic function works
- Touchpad functions with two fingers are not supported
- Touchpad swipe up/down/left/right with 3 or 4 fingers are not supported
- Miracast function is not supported
- Screen output via cable (extended screen) can be supported when force desktop mode> is turned on in developer menu.
- Cast Via HDMI (extended screen) can be supported when force desktop mode is turned on in developer menu.
- VPN is not tested and may not work properly
- WIDI is not supported
The last time Google attempted a tablet-only operating system was in 2011 with Android 3.0 Honeycomb; however, the software might now make more sense with more wide-screen device options available.
Google first announced in October that Android 12L would be a software version optimized specifically for wide-screened devices, including tablets, foldables, and devices that run Chrome OS. Android 12L is expected to release in early 2022, in accordance with the developer preview and beta release timeline.
The Lenovo Tab P12 Pro is currently selling only in the U.K. for £750, bundled with a stylus. 9to5Google recommends using a Chromebook emulator for the best access to the Android 12L Developer Preview.
