Android 15 is set to be an exciting upgrade, filled with innovative features and enhancements. Early versions of the new OS have already been released by Google, showcasing what’s to come. Key features include private space, theft detection lock, app pairs, notification cooldown, and more.
With so much to look forward to, the anticipation for Android 15’s official release is intense. If you own a Google Pixel, read on to find out when the stable build will be available. We’ll also cover the list of eligible devices and explore the features and enhancements that make Android 15 a must-have upgrade.
Release Timeline
Google has kept the Android 15 timeline similar to last year’s Android 14 release, broken down into three phases. The first phase saw two developer preview builds earlier this year. This was followed by multiple beta builds, allowing more users to participate in beta testing.
During these initial phases, Google continuously adds new features and enhancements while fixing known issues. With the beta 3 release last week, Android 15 entered the platform stability phase, meaning all developer APIs and app-facing behaviors are final. This is the last stage before the stable rollout.
Following a similar timeline as Android 14, the stable Android 15 is expected to be released in early or mid-October. Google Pixel devices will be the first to receive the new OS, with updates rolling out as soon as the stable build is released. However, only select Google Pixel devices will get the Android 15 update. Is your device on the list? Read the next section to find out.
Eligible Google Pixel Devices
- Google Pixel 8 Pro
- Google Pixel 8
- Google Pixel 7 Pro
- Google Pixel 7
- Google Pixel 7a
- Google Pixel 6 Pro
- Google Pixel 6
- Google Pixel 6a
- Google Pixel Fold
- Google Pixel Tablet
These Google Pixels are expected to receive the Android 15 update according to the software update policy.
Top Features & Enhancements
Satellite Connectivity Support
Android 15 extends platform support for satellite connectivity, adding UI elements to ensure a consistent user experience. The OS supports SMS, MMS, and preloaded RCS apps to use satellite connectivity for messaging. This means satellite messaging in Android 15 won’t be limited to emergency uses only, and apps can detect when a device is connected to a satellite.
Theft Detection Lock
If someone snatches your phone and runs away, the device will sense the motion and immediately lock the screen, preventing misuse. It will also lock if suspicious activities like constant attempts to disconnect the phone or multiple failed login attempts are detected. The other person will need to use the same Google account to set up the device after a factory reset, making it useless otherwise.
Private Space
Android 15 introduces a private space feature to protect apps and files you don’t want others to access. It uses a separate user profile and lets you set up a different lock factor for better security. Everything in the private space is invisible to the other space, and apps won’t show in the recent apps section. Downloads in the private space remain there.
App Pairs
For those who frequently use apps in split-screen mode, app pairs in Android 15 will be a favorite. It allows you to create a shortcut for your preferred split-screen combination, opening them in a single click.
Partial Screen Sharing
Screen sharing or recording in Android 15 is taken to the next level with partial screen sharing. This feature enables you to share or record a single app rather than the entire screen, keeping unwanted elements out of view.
Sensitive Notifications
Sensitive notifications are designed to prevent your OTPs from being read by malicious third-party apps.
High-Quality Webcam Mode
Android 15 aims to resolve the output quality issue when using your Android device as a webcam for your PC by integrating a new High-Quality Webcam mode. Enabling this mode requires tapping on the “HQ” symbol in the webcam preview, though it may increase battery drain due to disabled power optimizations.
Changes for Large Screen Devices
Android 15 includes important continuity feature changes for foldables. You can choose to have your front display (cover display) turn on or off when you fold your device. Google is also testing a “swipe up to continue” option, allowing you to continue apps on the cover screen by swiping up after folding your device.
What features of Android 15 are you most excited about? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to check our Android 15 section for the latest news and developments.
