Google’s latest mobile software update is now available in public beta.
As is customary, the yearly updates for Android and iOS are eagerly anticipated. Following Google I/O 2024, the second beta release of Android 15 is out, which provides an excellent chance to check out what’s new in the operating system this year.
For those interested in beta testing—be aware that these versions may have bugs and issues that could impact user experience. You can check if your device qualifies here. Google Pixel owners can register, and some third-party devices from manufacturers like OnePlus and Nothing are also included in the program, although Samsung devices are not yet eligible.
Keep in mind that features may be added or removed in the lead-up to the full launch of Android 15, expected around October if Google sticks to the schedule followed for Android 14. Here’s a look at what’s new and improved in Android 15 so far.
Partial Screen Recording
Android 15 introduces the ability to record only part of the screen, which is useful for tutorials, troubleshooting, or any other recording purposes. This feature is available in Android’s screen recorder tool, and developers can integrate it into their own apps as well.
Widget Previews
While widgets are not new to Android, Android 15 allows developers to add rich previews to widgets. For example, when adding a contact widget, you’ll be able to preview how it looks with one of your actual contacts.
Enhanced Multitasking
Android 15 enhances multitasking on tablets and large-screen devices by allowing the taskbar to be pinned permanently on the screen for a more desktop-like experience. Additionally, split-screen app combinations, such as Gmail and YouTube, can be saved and pinned to the taskbar for easy access later.
Predictive Back
The “predictive back” feature shows a preview of what you’re navigating back to when you use the universal back gesture (swiping from the side of the screen). For instance, you might see the website you just left or the home screen, helping you understand where you’ll be taken before completing the gesture.
Private Space
A new secure area called “private space” will be added to your phone, enabling you to lock away sensitive apps along with their important data and information. Similar to Samsung’s Secure Folder, this feature will be integrated into Android, accessible via a separate section in the app drawer that requires additional verification for added privacy and security, like a passcode or fingerprint. This space can house any app, including separate instances of Camera, Google Photos, and Google Chrome for private use.
Redesigned Volume Sliders
The volume control panel now occupies more screen space when you tap the three dots on the volume slider, making it easier to adjust media, alarm, and call volumes. You can also access connected Bluetooth devices from this screen.
Satellite Messaging
Android 15 may bring satellite messaging to Android phones, akin to what’s available on iPhones. This feature will extend platform support for satellite connectivity, but hardware compatibility and partnerships with satellite networks will be necessary for it to function.
Custom Vibrations
Good news for those who keep their phones on silent. Previously, Android apps could set custom vibrations, but with Android 15, you’ll be able to customise these vibrations yourself for different notification channels. For instance, you can set one buzz for emails, and two buzzes for text messages.
One-Time Password Protection
Many accounts require one-time passwords (OTPs) for verification. In Android 15, notifications containing these OTPs will not appear on-screen, reducing the risk of someone stealing your passwords by looking over your shoulder or recording your screen.
Anti-Theft Protection
Google is introducing several new features to Android to prevent theft. One such feature, Theft Detection Lock, uses artificial intelligence to detect if your phone is rapidly taken and then automatically locks the screen. This feature will also activate if your phone is offline for an extended period or if there are too many failed authentication attempts.
Additionally, you will find it easier to lock your device remotely. While these features will roll out to devices running Android 10 or later, Android 15 has an exclusive feature: your device cannot be reset without your Google account credentials, so that only you can perform a reset.
Improved Passkey Support
Android 15 includes some helpful improvements to passkey support, allowing you to unlock your Google account using methods like a fingerprint scan instead of a password. In the new OS, the account selection and confirmation screens are merged into one to reduce the number of steps. Moreover, Google also released a new restore feature to simplify transferring your credentials to a new phone.
Tweaks and Upcoming Features
Android updates consistently bring a variety of small but nonetheless important improvements to make strides in user experience and overall technology. In Android 15, these include more efficient video processing, improved handling of foreground apps to boost battery life, increased security to prevent malicious apps from hijacking tasks of legitimate apps, and expanded capabilities for Health Connect to collect more data from more apps over a longer period.
Unannounced features discovered by code diggers may also appear in Android 15, including a Samsung DeX-like desktop mode, a status page for phone storage health, and an extra-dim mode for reading in dark environments.
Some of these enhancements might not make it into the final release of Android 15, but as the software is not yet in its final version, we can expect a few more updates and announcements before then.