Google is moving forward with the preview phase of Android 15 by unveiling Developer Preview 2 (DP2). This follow-up to the initial preview release from last month is primarily focused on assisting developers in preparing their apps for the upcoming operating system. A public beta launch is anticipated for April.
Android 15 Developer Preview 2: Overview
One of the key enhancements in Android 15 DP2 is the inclusion of support for satellite connectivity at the core operating system level. This update incorporates user interface (UI) elements that aim to deliver a consistent user experience for devices linked to satellites.
Android 15 Satellite Connectivity
Applications now have the capability to identify if a device is utilizing a satellite network and can adjust their functionality accordingly. Furthermore, essential messaging services like SMS/MMS and pre-installed RCS apps are empowered to leverage satellite connections for communication purposes.
Improved PDF Handling and Other Enhancements
Android 15 DP2 brings about improvements in handling PDFs within applications, making tasks such as rendering password-protected PDFs, annotations, in-document search, editing, and selection more seamless for developers. These PDF renderer updates will be delivered through Google Play system updates, independent of major Android releases, resulting in a faster and less resource-intensive local PDF viewing experience on Android 15.
Other Enhancements
Developers can now tailor how their apps are presented on the smaller cover screens of flip-style foldable phones. Additionally, Android 15 introduces features such as app detection to enhance user privacy, a new loudness standard for improved audio consistency, and further customization options in the Do Not Disturb mode, allowing users to prioritize specific rules and activate actions like a black-and-white display, night mode, and wallpaper dimming.
