Android 15 is Here: Check Out Some of the New Features

Android's recent timetable points to a regular schedule for Google to preview the next major iteration of Android followed by the beta version before applying the coup de grace with the definitive release each fall. Of course, it still depends on the individual manufacturer's adoption schedule, so availability for each brand would vary.

Nonetheless, if you're interested in learning whether your device will receive the Android 15 update, you can check our comprehensive Android 15 device list here.

What's new in Android 15 OS Developer Preview 1?

As mentioned earlier, the first Android 15 developer preview brings internal system changes with a focus on security and privacy and that developers can test and iron out for the next Android 15 build. However, it doesn't mean that there won't be clues as to what regular users can expect to see in the final release with all the features already refined and baked in.

Among the most notable changes is how Android 15 will allow third-party apps to fully utilize the camera hardware, including controls and modes, across all compatible devices. This opens the door for apps like Instagram and TikTok to obtain comparable image and video quality as the main camera app. This will also include more advanced in-app controls to provide users with the ability to tweak camera metrics such as lighting and colors.

Samsung also performed a similar software enhancement with the Galaxy S24 (review) and Galaxy S24 Ultra (review), where Ultra HDR images can be captured and viewed using Instagram.

Another new Android 15 feature that is already available on Samsung devices via One UI is the ability to create app pair shortcuts on the home screen. Essentially, you can create a pair of apps where launching this opens the two apps simultaneously, making it useful for multitasking.

There is also a partial or custom screen recording with Android 15. From what we know, this new feature lets users select and record a specific area of the app rather than cover the entire app and its window.

In terms of security and performance, Android 15 adds new APIs to support dynamic gaming performance. What does this mean for end users? Better thermal management and a more optimized experience when gaming without the need for add-on gaming tools like a booster app. At the same time, the software will introduce secure files using custom cryptographic signatures.

If you're eager to test some of these features, you don't need to wait for long, though. Google plans to release the first beta for public testers in April.

Source: Google