Surface Duo Gets Android 14 Update, But It's Not From Microsoft
What you need to know
A Surface Duo-optimized build of Android 14 from former Microsoft developer Ty Nguyen is available for download.
The Android 14 ROM comes with a lot of cool features including basic AOSP with Google apps, stock app icons to customize the Surface Duo ROM, and more.
You can expect a lot of bugs when running this version on your device.
The developer recommends Pixel Launcher for this build.
Microsoft will no longer send updates to the original Surface Duo, but the Surface Duo 2 will be supported until 2024.
Microsoft hasn't provided any significant updates to the Surface Duo in recent months. Last month, the company announced that it would no longer send updates to the original Surface Duo, although the Surface Duo 2 will continue to receive updates until 2024.
In hindsight, Microsoft believed dual-screen devices were the future, but recent events reflect a different reality as the Surface Duo appears to be dead. While the Surface Duo 2 is still supported, the chances of this update coming with any major changes are slim. The device will likely run Android 12L as Microsoft has remained tight-lipped about its plans to bring Android 13 or even Android 14 to the device anytime soon.
Luckily, first- or second-generation Surface Duo owners still have options to explore. In May, former Microsoft developer Thai Nguyen began testing Android 14 firmware on the Surface Duo. Apparently, the project has evolved since its inception and is now available for download.
It's worth noting that the Android 14 ROM is based on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) and includes the following:
AOSP database with Google applications
Disable hinge set for Duo 2
Surface Duo ROM default setup app icon
OTA enabled for future builds
Former Microsoft developers also recommend Pixel Launcher for this version. Please note that the process may not be as smooth and smooth as you expect. The developer says users should "expect a lot of bugs." Therefore, you can head over to GitHub and download the Android 14 firmware for your Surface Duo.
At launch, the Surface Duo 2 shipped with Android 11 and has since only received Android 12L as its only major OS update. As our senior editor Jack Bowden noted, "Android 13 has been available for a year, and Android 14 is moving fast."
Google's New Line of Pixel Devices Might Be Worth It
Besides aesthetics, battery life, and other important features, users often consider the longevity of a device in terms of its longevity and how long it will continue to receive updates.
Google has seemingly filled this gap with its newest models, the recently released Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. Apart from including quality features in the device, Google promises to support the device for 7 years with new features and security updates. Don't forget that spare parts for these devices are in stock.
Ultimately, it is better to choose a device that will last rather than live in limbo.
Do you think the Microsoft Surface Duo has a chance against competitors like Google? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.
Google Pixel 8 Pro
Google's latest Pixel 8 Pro features the same 6.7-inch display and camera upgrades customers have come to expect. However, the company has integrated additional AI technologies into the Pixel 8 Pro that will help with the magic audio eraser and similar tools to ensure perfect shots.
