Android 12: Google takes inspiration from iOS 14 for new privacy tools

A few days ago screenshots of the Android 12 update interface appeared on the internet. In these images, intended for Google partners, we discover a new interface for the notification panel, simplified quick settings and a new widget that is obviously designed for “Conversations”.

First of all, Google is integrated New tools to increase privacy on Android and protect user privacy. Indicators will then notify the user that an app is currently using the microphone or front camera in the background.

Android 12 is based on iOS 14

These tools are largely inspired by the latest features of the iOS 14 update on iPhones. To warn that an app is using the microphone or sensor for selfies the interface displays a small colored dot in the status bar. In iOS 14, this indicator appears above the network bar. In Android 12, Google instead moves this point to the right of the battery indicator. We also see the same indicators when an app starts using the microphone or camera. In this case, Google uses a green square, while Apple uses a bright red indicator (see below).

That’s not all. Google also adds a panel listing all applications that have access to the device and microphone. Through this window it is possible to block a specific application from accessing these two elements and the geographical location of the smartphone. There is a section in iOS that is similar in its usefulness. On the other hand, Google has made numerous design and operational changes compared to the iPhone operating system.

The latest news is that Google plans to go even further in the future. According to a report from Bloomberg , the Mountain View firm is working on restrictions aimed at limiting ad tracking for Android users. This system would take inspiration from both the restrictions that iOS 14.5, currently in beta, will implement and the anti-cookie measures already in place in Chrome. But unsurprisingly, Google still wants to allow Android apps to collect data.