Google has rolled out the third beta version of Android 15, its upcoming mobile operating system. This update, identified by the build number AP31.240517.022, marks a significant milestone as Android 15 has now achieved its “Platform Stability” phase.
In layman's terms, Platform Stability indicates that the core features and the way apps interact with the system are now set. This allows developers to conduct final compatibility tests for their apps ahead of the official release later in the year.
New User-Facing Tweaks
Apart from developer-centric updates, Beta 3 brings a few minor refinements for users. Notably, Credential Manager for autofill has been integrated, simplifying the process of logging into apps and websites by using saved passwords. Users can also benefit from single-tap sign-up and sign-in through biometric methods like fingerprint or facial recognition. Additionally, WebSQL has been deprecated in Android WebView.
Bug Fixes and Improvements
Beta 3 also addresses several bugs reported in earlier versions. Issues such as faulty Bluetooth LE scans, connection crashes in the Android Emulator, and issues with the system share sheet have been fixed. Here are all the fixes Google has implemented in Android 15 Beta 3:
- Resolved an issue where disabling polling with the setDiscoveryTechnology method didn't actually disable polling. (Issue #341196917)
- Fixed a bug that prevented the system sharesheet from loading in certain scenarios. (Issue #340936670)
- Corrected a problem that caused the system Settings app to crash when accessing screen saver options. (Issue #340917853)
- Fixed an issue where the screen unlock icon sometimes appeared when notifications were on screen. (Issue #340923963)
- Solved a problem that prevented changes to mobile network security settings. (Issue #335438231)
- Fixed a crash in the Android Emulator caused by Simpleperf when running a CPU profile.
- Addressed an issue where Bluetooth LE scans persisted in the system after an app crash.
- Corrected a bug in Bluetooth LE legacy advertising where AdvertisingSet.setScanResponseData did not return ADVERTISE_FAILED_DATA_TOO_LARGE when scan response data exceeded the 31-byte limit.
- Resolved LE connection failures on the GATT server by passing the address type from BluetoothGattServer.connect to native.
Device Availability
Android 15 Beta 3 is available for various Pixel devices, ranging from the Pixel 6a to the latest Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet. Users who are part of the Android Beta Program will automatically receive the update over-the-air (OTA).
Do note that Android 15 is still in development, which means you might experience compatibility issues with apps or other system-related problems. Google advises users to report any issues through the Android Beta Feedback app or the Android Beta community forum. Though an official release date for Android 15 has yet to be announced, it is expected to launch sometime in 2024.
