The initial public beta of Android 15 has been released by Google, offering a sneak peek into the exciting features planned for the next version of its mobile operating system. This beta release follows two developer previews and introduces a range of new features and improvements, allowing users to get an early glimpse of what Google has in store with the new Android OS update. The official unveiling of Android 15 is scheduled to take place at Google’s annual developer conference, Google I/O, in May.
Currently, the Android 15 Beta 1 is exclusively available for Pixel devices enrolled in the Android Beta Program. Users with Pixel phones, such as Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, Pixel 8, and Pixel 8 Pro, can access the new update by following these steps:
– Enrol in the Android Beta Program (google.com/android/beta) with your Pixel.
– Check for System Update in Settings, download, and install Android 15 Beta.
Android 15 features
If you are a Pixel user interested in testing out new features, you have the option to download Android 15 Beta 1. Keep in mind that this software is still in the pre-release stage and may not be as stable as the final version. It is recommended to install it on a secondary device to prevent any potential bugs or interruptions on your primary phone. Prior to installation, make sure to review Google’s official release notes for Android 15 Beta 1 to learn about any known issues and fixes.
Upon downloading, the initial beta version of Android 15 introduces various enhancements and functionalities aimed at improving the user experience.
App Archiving and Unarchiving: Users can now benefit from a highly sought-after capability – the inclusion of app archiving and unarchiving directly within the system. This convenient feature enables users to reclaim storage space by selectively removing apps that are rarely used. Moreover, this functionality is not limited to the default app store, as it also encompasses third-party app stores, empowering users with greater autonomy over their device’s storage management.
Improved Braille Support: This update expands accessibility options by offering enhanced support for Braille displays.
Cellular Network Security Controls: Users are now offered enhanced control over encryption settings and network security notifications through a newly added category in Settings called “Cellular network security.”
Wi-Fi Network Device Identification Management: Users now have the ability to control how their device is recognized when connecting to Wi-Fi networks through a newly introduced toggle called “Send device name.” This feature empowers individuals to have more control over their personal information.
Default Wallet App: Customers are now able to designate a preferred wallet application to streamline access to payment features. (Availability could vary by location).
Pixel Weather Widgets (Pixel Phones Only): Pixel phone users will have the opportunity to utilize the new Pixel Weather widgets to enhance their personalized weather experience. Although the aforementioned characteristics seem encouraging, Android 15 could potentially offer additional features upon its official release. Speculations suggest an emphasis on seamless hardware and software integration, which could lead to the introduction of functionalities such as satellite messaging capabilities and a desktop mode akin to Samsung’s DeX. These potential developments are expected to be discussed further at Google I/O.