Android 15 Has Been Released By Google

 Android 15: What You Need To Know About Google's Latest OS Update

Image credit: Google

Android 15 was officially released by Google on the 15th October, 2024.

It will be available on 14 supported Pixel devices which include: 

• Pixel 6
• Pixel 6 Pro
• Pixel 6A
• Pixel 7
• Pixel 7 Pro
• Pixel 7A
• Pixel 8
• Pixel 8 Pro
• Pixel 8A
• Pixel 9 
• Pixel 9 Pro
• Pixel 9 Pro XL
• Pixel Fold
• Pixel Tablet

Android 15 version will be released to select devices from Samsung, Lenovo, Motorola, Nothing, OnePlus, Honor, iQOO, Oppo, Realme, Sharp, Sony, Tecno, Vivo, and Xiaomi.

New Features On Android 15

Android 15 was designed to keep sensitive information like health, financial, and personal information protected from theft and fraud. It also includes features for multitasking on large-screen devices like foldables and tablets. Additionally, updates were made to the camera, messaging, and passkeys apps.

The updated theft detection lock uses AI. With the new update, your phone locks itself automatically if it senses it has been stolen. Using your phone number, you can also lock your device after carrying out a security check with the Remote Lock Feature. There are new authentication requirements for settings that are usually targeted by thieves, like removing your SIM from your device or turning off Find My Device. Android 15 locks down a device if it senses multiple failed attempts for apps and settings.

This upgraded Android OS introduces "private space", which is a new locked area on your device where sensitive apps like banking and dating apps, can be hidden. If an app is locked away in your private space, only you will be able to see the app even if you hand your phone to someone else, because there will be no notifications from the app neither will the app be seen in the app list.

App pairing is another feature on Android 15 that enables users to multitask. For instance, you can open both Zoom and Google drive applications at the same time using a split-screen. Your frequently used apps can be saved and will appear as a single app icon on your foldable or tablet. You can now pin and unpin taskbars on your large-screen devices which makes multitasking easier.

Additionally, in-app camera controls work better in low-light conditions. Third-party apps now have more camera control like precise flash control. Satellite messaging is now available on Android 15. With just satellite connectivity, messaging apps can transmit messages without a mobile or Wi-Fi connection. This can be helpful if you find yourself in an area with poor network. Logging into apps that require Passkey authentication is now easier. The Passkeys update allows you to log in with just a tap using a biometric scan such as facial recognition and fingerprint. The Autofill Fallback UI suggests the correct passkey when you try to log in on an app saving you the stress of typing it manually.

The overall performance of Android phones has been improved with Android 15. From theft detection lock and multitasking with a split-screen to satellite messaging and security improvements, Google aims to enhance user experience and continue setting the pace in the technology industry.

How To Download Android 15

It is advisable to back up your phone before upgrading to Android 15 in case you have to downgrade to Android 14 later to avoid data loss. If you have automatic backups, your backups should be recent , but you can also do it manually. In your Settings, go to System > Backup and hit Back up now. You can also back up your device to your computer.

On your supported Android device, go to Settings > System > Software updates > System Updates. If Android 15 is available on your device, you'll see an update status appear. If not, tap the Check for update button on the bottom right. Next, tap Download and install and wait for your phone to download Android 15. Once your phone is finished, it will restart and boot back up. You should see Android 15 running on your device. 

If you see a not enough space available notification, you have to free up storage before updating to Android 15, or use your computer to update.