We’ve reached another milestone: Beta#8 is ready, and it will be the final beta release in the system’s history. The next version will be released on the stable channel, so this build serves as a sort of “dress rehearsal”—and as the changelog shows, it’s packed with content. Since there are new features, fixes, and a real surprise, we’ll go over everything included in Beta#8 in detail across two blog posts.
System Updates and Security
Beta#8 is based on the updated GrapheneOS source code, which already includes the security patch from September 5, 2026. Since MosaicOS carries on the privacy philosophy of GrapheneOS, this means not only the usual monthly update but also that the system provides protection against the latest vulnerabilities discovered by researchers.
Blutilities: A New Tool for Bluetooth Enthusiasts
This exciting new feature is the expansion of Blutilities. With a brand-new quick-settings tile, you can switch between Bluetooth A2DP codecs in an instant—so if you need better sound quality (such as LDAC) or a more stable connection, you no longer must dig through your Bluetooth settings. What’s more, the tile is also available as a standalone app, so even those who aren’t running MosaicOS can use it.
Hotspot: Back to Basics
In Beta#8, we reverted the hotspot configuration behavior to how it worked in Android 16. This means that non-owner profiles (such as guest profiles or secondary user accounts) can no longer modify hotspot settings—thus, the system prevents a less-privileged profile from making unauthorized changes to network sharing.
SetupWizard: ADB’s Final Farewell
The Setup Wizard has also gained an important security feature. ADB Debugging (Android Debug Bridge) can now be permanently disabled. If you enable this during a clean installation, ADB can only be re-enabled during a factory reset (clean flash). This is particularly useful for those who want to protect their device from attackers with physical access, or who simply want the strictest security settings.
Customization Right from Installation
A new feature has been added: you can now select the theme and navigation mode during the setup process. This means you don’t have to search for the right menu options after installation—you can configure the system to your liking right from the very first startup.
Offline AI Assistant: TIMTY
HERE’S THE REAL BIG THING!
MosaicOS introduces its offline AI assistant, Timty. Its most important feature is that it runs entirely on the device:
• It can be used with or without speech recognition. The models run exclusively offline, so no data ever leaves the device.
• The assistant is based on the Qwen 3.5 models, specifically the 2B and 4B versions—these are lightweight enough to run at an acceptable speed on a smartphone while providing meaningful, useful responses.
• The models can be managed through the MosaicStore, so the user decides which one to download and use. The recommended model depends on the Pixel phone, but the user can choose any model they prefer.
While most assistants send queries to the cloud, everything stays local here. Details can be found on the Mosaic Timty GitHub.com page. The new assistant isn’t just a standalone app—it can be launched instantly by long-pressing in Settings, and on the Launcher home screen, it can be opened from the long-press menu. You can also set up Timty to launch from the Gestures menu. This way, it’s quickly accessible from anywhere in the system without having to search for a separate app.
We will continue next week…
