Android 15: Sneak Peek at Upcoming Features

Android 15, the upcoming iteration of the Android operating system, is currently in the testing phase with the release of Android 15 Developer Preview 1 for Pixel devices. While intended for developer use, this preview gives us insight into the new features and improvements to expect in Android 15.

Android 15 Features: Name and Release Date

Android 15, internally known as Vanilla Ice Cream, follows Google’s decision to move away from dessert codenames. The stable release is expected around June-July 2024, possibly coinciding with the launch of the Pixel 9 series.

Android 15 Features: New UI Changes and Features

• Partial Screen Sharing: Users can now share or record just an app window, a feature first enabled in Android 14 QPR 2 on Pixel devices but now available across the wider Android platform.
  
• Notification Cooldown: A new function in the Notifications section lowers the volume of successive notifications from the same app, preventing users from being overwhelmed.
  
• In-App Camera Controls: Android 15 adds new extensions for more control over the camera hardware on supported devices. Features include low-light enhancements and advanced flash strength adjustments.
  
• Health Connect Updates: Updates to the Health Connect by Android platform add support for new data types across fitness, nutrition, and more.
  

Android 15 Features: Performance Improvements

• Android Dynamic Performance Framework (ADPF): Enhancements to ADPF allow games and performance-intensive apps to interact more directly with device power and thermal systems. New capabilities include a power efficiency mode, improved CPU and GPU frequency adjustments, and new thermal headroom thresholds.
  
• Privacy and Security Features: Privacy Sandbox on Android: Android 15 incorporates the latest version of Privacy Sandbox, introducing more private advertising solutions that limit the sharing of user data with third parties.
  
• File Integrity: Android 15 introduces the FileIntegrityManager API, using “fs-verity” to protect files from tampering or corruption.

Leaked and Upcoming Features

• Lockscreen Widgets: Android could bring back lockscreen widgets, a feature supported in Android 4.2 Jelly Bean but removed in Android 5.0 Lollipop.
  
• Battery Health Percentage: Android 15 might show the estimated percentage of charge your phone’s battery can currently hold compared to when it was new.
  
• App Archiving through Settings: Google could integrate a feature that lets users “offload apps” to reclaim storage space, similar to iOS’s feature.
  
• Voice Activation for Digital Assistants: Android 15 could introduce a feature allowing apps like ChatGPT and Amazon Alexa to use wake words, even with the screen off.
  
• Auracast Focus: Improvements to audio sharing to nearby Bluetooth LE Audio streams.
  
• Bluetooth Popup Dialog: Enhancements to Bluetooth management, allowing users to toggle individual connections.
  
• Private Space: A feature similar to Samsung’s Secure Folder for hiding apps and data.
  
• App Pairs: Saving split-screen app combinations for quick access.
  
• Edge-to-Edge Apps by Default: Encouraging developers to use the entire screen for their apps.
  
• Easy Pre-set Mode: Optimizing the Android experience for improved readability and ease of navigation, particularly useful for elderly or less tech-savvy users.

These features, along with others expected to be announced, make Android 15 a significant update to the Android platform, promising improved performance, privacy, and user experience.

Conclusion

Android 15 is shaping up to be a significant update with a range of new features and improvements. From UI changes like partial screen sharing to performance enhancements in the Android Dynamic Performance Framework, the update promises a better user experience. Privacy and security are also getting a boost with the Privacy Sandbox and File IntegrityManager API. With leaked features like lockscreen widgets and battery health percentage tracking, Android 15 looks to offer a compelling package for users and developers alike, setting a high standard for the platform’s future.