The operating system Android 13 has become a landmark step in the development of Google's mobile platform, bringing not only visual changes, but also major improvements in privacy and media management. Users around the world are wondering: which devices have officially confirmed receipt of the update, and which will be left behind? Unlike previous versions, this year Google has relied on deep optimization of the Material You interface, which is now available on more third-party gadgets.
The distribution process OTA updates (Over-The-Air) has been significantly accelerated thanks to partnerships with key market players such as Samsung, Xiaomi and OnePlus. However, it is worth understanding that the presence of a flagship processor does not guarantee instantaneous receipt of new firmware. Device owners need to take into account brand support policies and regional certification features, which may delay the release of a stable version for several months.
In this article we will analyze in detail the compatibility lists, technical nuances of switching to a new OS and answer questions that concern users. Data security and stability are priority tasks when update, so it's important to know what to expect from your smartphone. If you are planning to buy a new gadget or simply want to extend the life of your current one, this information will be critical for you.
Official list of Google Pixel devices
Google has traditionally provided the fastest support for its series devices Pixel. Owners of these smartphones are the first to get access to beta versions and stable builds Android 13. Support covers devices from the Pixel 4 onwards, which is a great indicator of the platform's longevity. Even relatively old flagships were able to use new features, such as an improved clipboard and language settings for each application.
It is worth noting that the series Pixel "a" (budget line) was also included in the list of lucky ones. This is a rare case when mid-budget devices are not deprived of functionality. However, owners of older models such as the Pixel 4 and 4 XL should be prepared for the fact that some heavyweight animations may run less smoothly due to the age of the hardware. Before installing the update, be sure to back up your data to Google Cloud to avoid losing contacts and photos in the event of a failure. gland.
Before installing the update, be sure to back up your data to Google Cloud to avoid losing your contacts and photos in the event of an outage.
Below here is a list of models guaranteed to receive the update:
- 📱 Google Pixel 4 / 4 XL
- 📱 Google Pixel 4a / 4a (5G)
- 📱 Google Pixel 5 / 5a / 5G
- 📱 Google Pixel 6 / 6 Pro / 6a
- 📱 Google Pixel 7 / 7 Pro
For users interested in technical details, it is important to know that updates to Android 13 on Pixel backgrounds often come in waves. Even if your device is on the list, the notification may not arrive on the first day of release.
Why does the update not arrive to everyone at the same time?
Google uses a phased rollout to track possible critical errors on a small group of devices before mass distribution. This is standard practice to ensure stability.
Support from Samsung and OnePlus
The South Korean giant Samsung continues to delight users with long-term support for its devices. The flagship series Galaxy S20, S21, S22 and folding Galaxy Z Fold/Flip received the One UI 5.0 shell based on Android 13. The update brought widgets of a new format and improved integration with the smart home ecosystem. For many users, this has become a decisive factor when choosing a brand.
The Company OnePlus, in turn, accelerated the process of introducing new versions of Android after merging app codes with OPPO. The flagship series OnePlus 9 and 10, as well as the Nord line, received OxygenOS 13. The interface has become more responsive, and the notification management system has been redesigned to improve productivity.
⚠️ Attention: Update release dates for Samsung and OnePlus is highly region and carrier dependent. Unlocked versions usually update faster than carrier versions.
The table below shows a comparison of support for the main series:
| Brand | Device series | Update status | Version shell |
|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung | Galaxy S21 / S22 | Available | One UI 5.0 |
| Samsung | Galaxy A52 / A73 | Available | One UI 5.0 |
| OnePlus | OnePlus 9 / 9 Pro | Available | OxygenOS 13 |
| OnePlus | OnePlus Nord 2 | Available | OxygenOS 13 |
Owners of mid-segment devices such as the series Galaxy Asometimes have to wait longer than flagships. This is due to the need for additional optimization of drivers for less powerful processors.
The situation with Xiaomi, Realme and other brands
Ecosystem Xiaomi offers a wide range of devices, but the approach to updates is uneven. Flagship models based on processors Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 and newer, such as Xiaomi 12 and Xiaomi 13, received the MIUI 14 shell (based on Android 13) quite quickly. However, owners of devices with MediaTek or older Snapdragon processors may encounter delays.
The brand Realme has also stepped up its game by releasing Realme UI 4.0 for the Realme 9 Pro GT series and flagships. Users report a significant improvement in multitasking. At the same time, the budget segment often remains on older versions of Android, which is a common trend for Chinese manufacturers focusing on the premium segment.
☑️ Check before updating
List of popular models that have received support:
- 🚀 Xiaomi 12 / 12 Pro / 12S
- 🚀 Xiaomi Mi 11 / 11i / 11 Ultra
- 🚀 Realme GT 2 / 2 Pro
- 🚀 Realme 9 Pro / 9 Pro+
- 🚀 Poco F4 / F4 GT
It is important to understand that global firmware versions (Global ROM) may be released later than Chinese ones (CN ROM). If you are using Chinese version a smartphone with the global firmware installed manually, the automatic update via OTA may not come.
⚠️ Attention: When updating Xiaomi from MIUI 13 to MIUI 14 (Android 13), sometimes a complete data clearing is required. Make sure that all important files are saved in the cloud.
Key innovations of Android 13
The transition to Android 13 is not just a change in the number in the version number. The system offers a number of functions that change the experience of interacting with a smartphone. One of the main features was permission to send notifications for each application separately. You no longer need to go into deep settings to disable spam from a specific service; the system will ask about this when you first launch the application.
Another important change has affected Clipboard. Now, when an application tries to read copied text or an image, the system shows a notification about it. This significantly increases the transparency of application operation and protects the user from hidden data collection. You'll always know who's looking at your clipboard and when.
Android 13 puts an emphasis on personalization and privacy, giving the user full control over notifications and access to data.
Working with multimedia has also improved. It is now possible to select the interface language regardless of the system language for individual applications. This is especially true for those who study foreign languages or use applications that do not have full localization. In addition, Media Player the notification shade has received a new, more compact and functional design.
Technical improvements have also affected the work with Bluetooth. The LC3 codec is now supported at the system level, providing better audio quality with less power consumption if your headphones support this standard. This makes listening to music better even from a distance.
How to check and install updates
The process of checking for updates is standard for most devices, but has its own nuances depending on the manufacturer. Usually the path is through the settings menu. You need to go to Settings → System → System Update (the path may vary slightly). On Samsung devices, this is Settings → Software Update.
If the automatic check does not find a new version, but you know that it has already been released for your model, try clearing the update service cache. To do this, go to Settings → Applications → Show system processes → Google Play Services (or similar name for your brand) and select "Clear cache". After rebooting, check again for the update.
adb shell pm clear com.google.android.gsfThis command for advanced users (via ADB) helps reset the state of Google Framework services, which sometimes forces an update check. However, it should be used with caution only if standard methods do not work.
What to do if the update is stuck?
If the download is interrupted or frozen, try switching from Wi-Fi to mobile data (or vice versa), and then start the scan again. Turning airplane mode on and off also helps.
Compatibility issues and known bugs
Like any major release, Android 13 is not without childhood illnesses. Users of some models Samsung and Xiaomi reported increased battery consumption in the first days after the update. This is normal: the system needs time (usually 2-3 days) to re-index files and optimize background processes in new conditions.
There are problems with the operation of NFCmodules in banking applications on some custom firmware. In rare cases, payment applications may no longer see the NFC module after the update. The solution is often to clear the cache of the Google Pay / Samsung Pay application itself or re-link the card.
⚠️ Attention: If after the update the smartphone starts to get very hot or discharges quickly, do not rush to take it in for repair. Give the device 48 hours to adapt. If the problem persists, consider resetting to factory settings. Some users report unstable operation of connections with car headsets. In such cases, it is recommended to remove the device from the paired list and connect it again. It is also worth updating the firmware of the headphones or speakers themselves, if the manufacturer provides such an option.
Some users report unstable performance Bluetooth- connections with car headsets. In such cases, it is recommended to remove the device from the paired list and connect it again. It is also worth updating the firmware of the headphones or speakers themselves, if the manufacturer provides such an option.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it safe to install Android 13 on an old smartphone?
Installation on devices that are more than 3-4 years old may lead to decreased performance. Although Google is optimizing the system, new features require more resources. On older models, the interface may work less smoothly, and the battery may not last as well.
Will my data be reset when updating?
When updating via OTA (over the air), the data is saved. However, there is always a risk of software failure. We strongly advise you to back up your photos and contacts before starting the process.
Is it possible to go back to Android 12?
Officially - no, the downgrade procedure is complicated, requires unlocking the bootloader and complete data loss. On some devices (for example, Pixel) this is possible through Flash tools, but on Samsung or Xiaomi it is extremely difficult to do this without losing warranty and data.
Why didn’t my phone receive the update?
This may be due to regional restrictions, firmware modifications, or the fact that the manufacturer has not yet completed testing for your specific model. Check the list of supported devices on the brand's official website.