Surface Duo gets Android 14 update, but it’s not from Microsoft
A former Microsoft developer brings a new Android experience to the Surface Duo.
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What you need to know
Microsoft hasn’t shippedmeaningful updates to the Surface Duoin the past few months. Last month, the company announced thatit will no longer ship updates to the original Surface Duo, though the Surface Duo 2 will continue to receive updates until 2024.
In hindsight,Microsoft believed that dual-screen devices were the future, but recent developments reflect a different reality, asthe Surface Duo is seemingly dead. While the Surface Duo 2 is still supported, the chances of these updates shipping with any major changes are extremely slim. It’s highly likely that the device will continue running onAndroid 12L, as Microsoft has remained silent on its plans to bringAndroid 13or even Android 14 to the device anytime soon.
Luckily, there’s still an alternative available that first or second-gen Surface Duo owners can explore. In May, Thai Nguyen, an ex-Microsoft developer, startedexperimenting with bringing stock Android 14 ROM to Surface Duo. The project seems to have morphed from its infancy and is now available for download.
Here is the Android 14 release for Duo 1/2- AOSP base with Google apps- Hinge Gap disable for Duo 2- Settings app icons from stock Surface Duo ROM- OTA enabled for future buildd- Please use Pixel Launcher for this build.- Expect lots of bugshttps://t.co/GbLzQpXTX0 pic.twitter.com/TO9jG1zV6SOctober 9, 2023
It is worth noting that the Android 14 ROM is based on Android Open Source Project (AOSP), and ships with the following:
The ex-Microsoft developer also recommends Pixel Launcher for this build. It is worth noting that the experience might not be as smooth and seamless as you may hope. The developer stated that users should “expect a lot of bugs.” With this in mind, you can head to GitHub anddownload Android 14 ROM for your Surface Duo.
During launch, the Surface Duo 2 shipped with Android 11 and has only received Android 12L as the only major OS update since. As our Senior Editor, Zac Bowden,highlighted, “Android 13 has been out for a year, and Android 14 is set to launch imminently.”
Google’s new lineup of Pixel devices could be worth your while
Other than the aesthetic appeal, battery life, and other salient features, users often look at a device’s longevity in terms of its durability and how long it will continue receiving updates.
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As it seems, Google has clocked and bridged this gap with its latest entries, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro that were recently launched. Aside from incorporating quality-of-life features in these devices,Google promised to support these devices for up to 7 years, bringing new features and security updates. Not forgetting that spare parts for these devices will be readily available.
At the end of the day, you’re better off placing your bet on a device that will be there for the long haul rather than living in uncertainty.
Do you think Microsoft’s Surface Duo stands a fighting chance against competitors such as Google? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.
Google’s latest Pixel 8 Pro has arrived sporting a 6.7-inch display and the same strong cameras consumers have come to expect. However, the company has packed much more of its AI technology into the Pixel 8 Pro to assist with its Audio Magic Eraser and other such tools to ensure your shots stay perfect.
Kevin Okemwa is a seasoned tech journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya with lots of experience covering the latest trends and developments in the industry at Windows Central. With a passion for innovation and a keen eye for detail, he has written for leading publications such as OnMSFT, MakeUseOf, and Windows Report, providing insightful analysis and breaking news on everything revolving around the Microsoft ecosystem. You’ll also catch him occasionally contributing at iMore about Apple and AI. While AFK and not busy following the ever-emerging trends in tech, you can find him exploring the world or listening to music.
