Get ready for the most thrilling Android update yet! While we eagerly await the official release of Android 15, here’s a sneak peek at some of the standout features and improvements. For the full scoop, head over to Google’s developer site and check out our in-depth article on all the exciting new additions coming to Android, Wear OS, Android Auto, and Android TV.

Private Space

Android 15 introduces a new Private Space, perfect for keeping your sensitive apps secure. Whether it’s health data or banking apps, Private Space locks them behind a second layer of authentication, using the same password or an alternative PIN. When locked, apps are hidden from recents view, notifications, settings, and other apps. You can even wipe your Private Space completely for added security.

Expanded Satellite Connectivity

Android 15 significantly expands satellite connectivity. Now, RCS and SMS apps can send text messages via satellite, not just for emergencies. Plus, Google has standardized the pop-ups and user interface elements to clearly indicate when you’re connected via satellite.

Partial Screen Recording

Share only what you want with Android 15’s partial screen recording. Instead of sharing your entire screen, you can share individual apps, keeping your notifications and other apps private. Logins and one-time passwords (OTPs) are automatically hidden from remote viewers. This feature, previously available on Pixels, is now integrated into Android.

Enhanced Malicious App Blocking

Android 15 ramps up protection against malicious apps. They can no longer hide behind other apps or overlay themselves invisibly. Updates also prevent the exploitation of intents, which are often misused by malware, ensuring a safer user experience.

App Archiving

With Android 15, app archiving allows you to offload apps you haven’t used in a while while keeping your user settings or save data. This system-wide feature lets you choose to auto-archive apps when storage is running low.

Better PDF Handling

Google has enhanced PDF handling in Android 15. PDFs now load more smoothly, and the update includes support for password-protected files, annotations, form editing, and copy selection. You can even search within PDF files!

Enhanced Fraud and Scam Protection

Android 15 introduces robust updates to combat fraudsters and scammers. Play Protect and on-device AI scan for suspicious behavior, and OTPs used in two-factor authentication are hidden from the notifications system. Restricted settings for side-loaded apps further enhance security.

Loudness Control

Say goodbye to jarring volume changes between apps. Android 15 supports the CTA-2075 loudness standard, intelligently adjusting audio based on the characteristics of your speakers, headphones, or earbuds, ensuring a smooth listening experience.

Better Low-Light Camera

Android 15 brings significant improvements to the camera app. The Low Light Boost feature enhances previews in low-light conditions for better nighttime shots and QR code scanning. New camera app options also give you finer control over the flash intensity.

Taskbar Options

For Android tablets and folding phones, the taskbar dock is now customizable. Choose whether to keep it permanent, transient, or hide it altogether. Pin your favorite split-screen app combinations and enjoy edge-to-edge app display, maximizing your screen real estate.

Better Battery Life

Android 15 includes efficiency tweaks for improved battery life. More checks on foreground services and restrictions on active apps mean devices with a lot of RAM will see faster app and camera launch times with lower power draw.

Good Vibrations

Adjust keyboard vibrations system-wide in Android 15. A new toggle in Settings > Sound and vibration > Vibration and haptics lets you control haptic intensity. Rich vibrations also help differentiate between notification types without looking at the screen.

More Foldable Cover Screen Options

Android 15 integrates options for foldable cover screens. Choose whether actions switch automatically to the cover screen when you fold your device. Enhanced support for apps displaying on smaller cover screens in the flip phone category adds more versatility.

More Health Connect Data

Android 15 enhances Health Connect with new data types: skin temperature and training plans. Collect comprehensive health and fitness data from wearables like the Oura ring and Pixel Watch 2.

Enhanced Theft Protection

Android 15’s new safeguards deter thieves with automatic locking and remote lock options. The update to factory reset protection ensures that stolen devices can’t be set up again without knowing your device or Google account credentials.