Android 14: Explained: Health and privacy-related features in Android 14

Google launched the new Pixel 8 series at its “Made by Google” event on October 4. The lineup includes two smartphones: the Pixel 8 and the Pixel 8 Pro. The latest smartphones will run Google’s Android 14 OS out-of-the-box. Apart from this, the tech giant is also rolling out its latest major software upgrade to supported Pixel devices as well.
Android 14 is also expected to arrive in smartphones from other brands by the end of the year.The latestAndroid update comes with features that will allow users to customise their smartphone experience, give more control of their health and safety as well as improve accessibility.
Android 14 to offer users more control over health, security and data
There are multiple Android apps that help users to track their fitness, health and wellness levels. However, the data collected by them is often stored within each app. This limits user visibility and control over their data.
The Health Connect feature which will be built into Android 14’s settings will enable users to store their data in one place and stay in control of its privacy. In its blog post, Google claims that the data will be securely encrypted on the phone.
This will ensure that the company or anyone else can’t see or use it for any other purpose. Users will be able to simply connect and sync their favourite health and fitness apps (including third-party apps) to get started.

Users will also have more visibility into how their data is being used by apps that request access to data. With new data sharing updates on Android 14, when apps ask users to grant permission to information like their location, they will be notified when an app is sharing location data with third parties. This will help users to make a more informed decision on whether or not to grant access.
Digital protection on Android 14 will also cover the user’s most sensitive data. This includes the device’s personal identification numbers (PIN). Android 14 will enhance PIN security by encouraging users to set a six-digit PIN. Users won’t have to hit enter after typing in the correct 6-digit or longer PIN as their device will automatically unlock.