Huawei Opens Applications for Android Q Beta Testers

Google I/O 2019, Huawei Consumer Business Group (BG) announced a global running now through June 30. Developers are invited to try out the latest Android test build on HUAWEI Mate 20 Pro and contribute to optimizing and improving device compatibility of Android Q.

Interested developers may submit their applications on Huawei’s Friendly User Test (FUT) app[1] with a HUAWEI Mate 20 Pro device. Once registered[2], developers may download the beta software via Huawei OTA, and are encouraged to submit feedback to Huawei throughout the test period.[3]

Announced May 7 at Google I/O 2019, Android Q is the tenth major version of the popular smartphone platform.

Android Q imposes new restrictions on file access to prevent cross-app data collection. In addition, apps now require special permission to gain access to non-resettable device identifiers. Android Q-based devices also transmit randomized MAC addresses by default. Most apps that are not in focus also lose access to users’ clipboards on Android Q, eliminating another avenue for potential leakage of sensitive data.

The update adds features that accommodate user demands for new entertainment experiences and novel use cases enabled by new device form factors such as foldables. It also natively supports a 5G framework in anticipation of the upcoming 5G-enabled smart devices slated to arrive later this year.

In recent years, Huawei has been working closely with Google to improve the Android platform, sharing its experience in security and performance optimization from developing EMUI with Google for the benefit of all players in the industry. The feedback Huawei receives from developers participating in the Android Q beta test will also be relayed to Google to accelerate the development of the software.