Google has a long tradition of offering early access to new Android versions through preview builds. This allows developers and enthusiasts to test new features and provide feedback before the official release.
The first preview build for Android 15 arrived in late February, followed by DP2 in March. The first public beta of Android 15 became available in April, offering a more stable experience than the earlier releases.
While I couldn’t wait to get my hands on the Android 15 beta on my Pixel 8, it’s important to remember it’s not quite ready for everyday use. Many features are functional, but there are bugs with core functionalities like cameras, calls, and connectivity. It’s best to avoid installing it on your primary device.
Here’s a look at the timeline for Android 15:
- Preview builds: February – March
- Public Beta: April – July (expected)
- Stable Release: Likely August (based on past release schedules)
Traditionally, Google uses internal codenames for Android versions, and Android 15 is codenamed Vanilla Ice Cream. This time, the Android beta program is limited to Pixel devices, with only Pixel 6 and above eligible for the update. Here’s the list of compatible devices:
- Pixel 6
- Pixel 6 Pro
- Pixel 6a
- Pixel 7
- Pixel 7 Pro
- Pixel 7a
- Pixel 8
- Pixel 8 Pro
- Pixel Fold
- Pixel Tablet
Beta builds eventually make their way to other Android phones, but that typically happens later in the year.
Innovative Features of Android 15:
Now, let’s explore some of the exciting new features in Android 15! Remember that Android 15 is still in beta; more features may be added or refined before the stable release. Stay tuned for further updates!
Notification Management:
This clever feature minimizes the frequency of notifications from the same app when they arrive quickly. If you’re engaged in a lively chat group inundating your device with messages, Android 15 will automatically tone down subsequent notifications. You can apply this setting to conversations or extend it to all applications.
Individual Keyboard Vibration Control:
Android 15 introduces a system-wide toggle for turning keyboard vibration on or off. Previously, users had to adjust this setting within specific keyboard applications. Additionally, Google has incorporated a slider for fine-tuning vibration intensity, mirroring the functionality offered by other smartphone brands.
Haptic Feedback for Brightness Adjustment:
Google has integrated haptic feedback into the brightness slider to provide more tactile feedback across the system. While subtle, this enhancement adds a satisfying touch to the brightness adjustment experience.
Selective Screen Recording:
Android now offers partial screen recording, aligning with capabilities already present in other smartphone ecosystems. Instead of capturing the entire screen, users can now record videos from a specific app while excluding other content and notifications.
Redesigned Bluetooth Controls:
Android 15 brings significant improvements to Bluetooth management. Previously limited to simply toggling Bluetooth on or off, the Bluetooth tile now offers expanded functionality. A short press on the tile reveals a menu akin to the Internet tile, allowing users to view paired devices, switch between them, and adjust connectivity settings.
Adding a new device is streamlined, with a tap on the “+” icon opening the Bluetooth settings page. This enhancement, already familiar to users of specific other phone interfaces, is a valuable addition to stock Android.
Edge-to-Edge Display Support:
With Android 15, applications can utilize the entire display width, even with the gesture navigation bar enabled. This optimization promises a more immersive viewing experience, particularly on tablets.
Enhanced Foldable Device Support:
Drawing inspiration from OnePlus, Android 15 facilitates a seamless transition of activities from the inner screen to the cover screen when folding a device. This feature enhances usability on foldable devices and hints at promising future integration of foldable technology with Android.
Improved Performance Optimization:
Android 15 introduces a new power-efficient mode tailored for prolonged background tasks. This mode aims to prevent background applications from unnecessarily draining system resources. Google also implements new thermal thresholds to mitigate throttling issues, even on high-end devices under demanding usage scenarios.
High-Quality Webcam Mode:
Recognizing the widespread use of smartphones as webcams, Android 15 introduces a High-Quality (HQ) mode to enhance video quality. Users can toggle HQ mode for improved detail resolution, albeit at the cost of potentially increased device temperature.
Persistent Taskbar for Foldables and Tablets:
Android 15 Developer Preview 2 introduces a persistent taskbar for Pixel Fold devices and Android tablets. This feature, already commonplace in many foldable devices from various manufacturers, enhances multitasking capabilities on foldable devices and tablets.
Audio Sharing:
Audio sharing is a new addition in Developer Preview 2 that allows users to share the same audio stream across multiple Bluetooth headphones. This eliminates the need for shared earbuds and enhances the audio experience for various users.
The Audio Sharing submenu can be accessed from the Connected Devices page, promising convenient and seamless audio-sharing functionality in later builds of Android 15.
To Upgrade your Device to Android 15, you have several options:
Enroll in the Android Beta for Pixel Program:
The simplest method to obtain Android 15 on a compatible Google Pixel device is by enrolling your device in the Android Beta for Pixel program. Here’s how:
- Visit the Android 15 Beta for Pixel enrollment page.
- Follow the provided instructions to enroll your device.
- Once enrolled, your device will receive regular over-the-air (OTA) updates throughout the platform’s release cycle, including Quarterly Platform Releases (QPRs).
- While a full data reset isn’t necessary to transition to the Android 15 Beta, it’s advisable to back up your data before enrolling.
During the Android Beta for Pixel program’s release cycle, four stable releases are available to the public, including the official platform release and three Quarterly Platform Releases. After applying a stable release update, you can opt out of future Beta updates without needing a data wipe for a limited period.
Flash or Manually Install a System Image:
If you prefer manual flashing, you can utilize the Android Flash Tool or download an Android 15 system image tailored for your device from the Pixel downloads page. This method offers greater control over testing, particularly for automated or regression testing purposes.
After flashing a Developer Preview or Beta build to a compatible Pixel device, you’ll automatically receive over-the-air updates for subsequent Developer Preview and Beta builds until the final release.
Set Up the Android Emulator:
Configuring the Android Emulator is a viable option for exploring new features, APIs, or testing behavior changes in Android 15. This tool allows you to emulate various screen sizes and device characteristics for testing purposes.
- Install the latest Preview version of Android Studio and then proceed to set up a virtual device (phone or tablet) within the emulator.
Remember to back up your data before initiating any modifications to your device, and enjoy exploring the exciting new features offered by Android 15!
The Future of Android 15: Final Thoughts
With public beta testing underway, the exciting new features of Android 15 are on the horizon. Google typically launches major user-facing features in the second public beta, which will likely be released at Google I/O. That might be the perfect time to install Android 15 on your compatible device.
Check the official Android developer site for the latest builds and information on supported devices. Android 15 has a lot to be excited about, and we are eager to see what other features Google has in store for us!
FAQ’s
1. When will Android 15 be released?
The Android 15 release is expected to happen in the coming months. Google’s latest version will introduce new features and improvements to enhance your phone experience.
2. How can I upgrade to Android 15 on my device?
To upgrade toAndroid 15, you must wait for Google’s official rollout. Watch for notifications on your phone indicating that the update is available for download.
3. Will my Android 14 device be eligible for the Android 15 update?
If your device is currently running Android 14, you can likely upgrade to Android 15 once the rollout begins. However, some older devices may not be compatible with the new software.
4. Can I try out Android 15 beta before the official release?
If you are eager to explore the new features ofAndroid 15 before the official launch, you can sign up for the beta program. This allows you to test the software early and provide feedback to improve the final version.
5. What are some of the new features in Android 15 that users can look forward to?
Android 15 could introduce a range of exciting updates, including improvements to the user interface, lock screen settings, enhanced camera functionalities, and a vanilla ice cream mode for a smoother experience.
