In a move that many have anticipated, Samsung’s One UI 7 update, which is based on Android 15, is expected to introduce Large Folders—a feature that has been available on many competitor Android skins for several years.
While traditional folders have long been a core feature for organizing Android home screens, Large Folders provide a more efficient way to access commonly used apps.
Enhanced Home Screen Organization
One UI already permits users to group apps into folders on the home screen or in the app drawer. This feature keeps frequently accessed apps within easy reach while reducing visual clutter. However, Large Folders elevate this functionality. For example, phones running HarmonyOS and HyperOS offer customizable Large Folders that expand beyond the typical folder icon size.
These Large Folders generally feature a 3×3 grid layout, allowing users to access up to eight apps with a single tap. A ninth slot displays a minimized icon, representing additional apps within the folder. Tapping this minimized icon expands the Large Folder, making all contained apps easily accessible.
Expected Features and Launch
Although details remain unconfirmed, leaks indicate that One UI 7’s Large Folders will offer similar functionality. Samsung may also add refinements specific to Galaxy devices. It is unclear whether Large Folders will be part of the initial One UI 7 Beta release or if they will appear in later builds.
The One UI 7 Beta program is rumored to start in August, possibly followed by a stable release in late October after a Developer Conference reveal. The Beta program is expected to be available in China, Germany, India, Poland, South Korea, the UK, and the US.
User Experience Parity
The inclusion of Large Folders, while not revolutionary, moves Samsung closer to achieving user experience parity with other Android skins. Whether Samsung’s implementation will offer unique benefits compared to existing solutions remains to be seen.
Samsung is progressing with the development of One UI 7, aiming for a complete overhaul of its smartphones. The project is almost finished. Initially, it was expected that the company would unveil the first beta version of One UI 7 on July 29. However, recent updates indicate that the Korean tech giant has postponed the Android 15 beta. Here’s what we know…
Samsung Delays One UI 7 Beta Due to Ongoing One UI 6.1.1 Update
The release of Android 15-based One UI 7 is imminent. Leaks about Google’s early release of Android 15 have fueled these expectations. Yet, when July 29 came around, it became clear that Samsung has slightly altered its schedule. The delay is primarily due to the ongoing One UI 6.1.1 update.
Samsung has recently launched its next-gen foldable smartphones, the Galaxy Fold 6 and Flip 6. These devices feature Android-based One UI 6.1.1 and advanced AI capabilities. The company is now working to extend these features to more users by rolling out the One UI 6.1.1 update to other models.
Balancing Updates and Avoiding Distractions
While Samsung focuses on distributing the One UI 6.1.1 update, it’s also cautious about initiating the Android 15-based One UI 7 beta. The concern is that launching the new beta might divert user attention and lessen the impact of One UI 6.1.1. Moreover, they want to steer clear of any technical hitches.
Reports from early users of One UI 7, describing it as “very problematic,” seem to validate these concerns. It appears that the first Android 15 beta is postponed due to Samsung being heavily involved in current One UI updates.
Future Prospects
Despite the delay, we are hopeful that Samsung will soon make One UI 7 available to its users. As previously mentioned, the upcoming version promises to bring significant design enhancements to Samsung smartphones.
Google has now rolled out the fourth beta of Android 15, signaling that the stable release is imminent. This new version of the Android OS promises a range of exciting features and improvements, making the official release highly anticipated. Unfortunately, this will be the final major OS update for many Vivo and iQOO phones.
Below is a list of Vivo and iQOO phones that will receive Android 15 as their final major OS update. These phones will continue to get security updates for some time.
Vivo and iQOO Phones Receiving Their Last Major OS Update with Android 15
Vivo V30 Lite
Vivo V29 Pro
Vivo V29e
Vivo V29
Vivo V29 Lite
Vivo V27 Pro
Vivo V27
Vivo V27e
Vivo T2 Pro
Vivo T2
Vivo T2x
Vivo Y200 Pro
Vivo Y200e
Vivo Y100 4G
Vivo Y58
Vivo Y38
Vivo Y28s
Vivo Y18
Vivo Y18e
Vivo Y03
iQOO 11 Pro
iQOO 11
iQOO Z7 Pro
iQOO Z7s
iQOO Z7
iQOO Z7x
iQOO Neo 7 Pro
iQOO Neo 7
This list is not official but has been compiled by analyzing the software update policies for each Vivo and iQOO device and observing past rollouts.
Software Update Policies
Vivo’s flagship X series typically receives up to three Android upgrades, while the popular V and T series get two OS updates. The more budget-friendly Y-series phones generally receive just one OS upgrade. iQOO phones usually get up to two Android updates.
When Will Vivo Roll Out Android 15?
Although Android 15 is still in development, we are nearing the stable release phase since the fourth beta version is now available. This is the final scheduled beta for Google Pixels, but Google might still release .x patches.
Google has yet to announce an official release date for Android 15, but it is expected to be unveiled next month at the Made by Google event, alongside the Pixel 9 series. These new Pixels will be the first devices to come with the latest OS.
Once the stable build is available, smartphone manufacturers will start fine-tuning their custom skins (like Funtouch OS) to be compatible with the new OS. This process usually takes a few weeks before the stable build is distributed.
Last year, Android 14 was released in October, and Vivo began rolling it out to eligible devices the same month. This year, the rollout could also start as early as next month, with October being the latest possibility.
Key Features to Expect in Android 15
Theft Detection Lock
The Find My Device network has recently been updated, allowing users to locate lost Android devices through a crowdsourced network of over a billion Android devices. Android 15 will introduce a Theft Detection Lock feature that automatically locks the device if it detects unusual motion or suspicious activities.
Private Space
Android 15 adds a Private Space feature, allowing users to store confidential apps or files under an extra layer of security. Users can use a different Google account and lock for enhanced protection.
Satellite Connectivity
The new OS extends platform support for satellite connectivity, allowing SMS, MMS, and native RCS apps to send and receive messages via satellite. This feature might require special chip and carrier support.
App Archiving
Similar to the “Offloading apps” feature on Apple iPhones, Android 15 allows users to uninstall unnecessary apps while retaining user data. This feature is integrated at the OS level, unlike the existing app archiving via the Google Play Store.
Partial Screen Sharing
Android 15 introduces partial screen sharing, enabling users to choose specific apps for screen sharing or recording. This ensures that only the app’s content is visible, keeping other details like incoming notifications private.
High-Quality Webcam Mode
The new OS will offer a high-quality webcam mode, allowing users to use their Android phones as webcams for computers. This mode can be activated by tapping a new "HQ" symbol in the webcam preview, which may increase battery consumption.
For the past three years, Samsung’s One UI interface has experienced minimal significant changes. Last year’s One UI 6.0 update primarily focused on the Quick Panel layout. However, a recent leak suggests that a major design overhaul is on the horizon with One UI 7.0, which will be built on Android 15.
A Major Overhaul Expected
According to reliable tipster Ice Universe, One UI 7.0 will introduce a completely new UI design. The tipster stated that it could be "the most changed version in the history of One UI." This update is also expected to feature revamped app icons, marking a rare departure from Samsung’s usual design cycle.
Samsung typically sticks with its icon designs for long periods, often refreshing them every five years or so. If these rumors are accurate, a new icon design language along with a broader UI revamp would make One UI 7.0 a significant update. Previous rumors also suggested the possibility of a vertical app drawer in One UI 7.0, although this hasn’t been confirmed yet.
Beta Program and Rollout Strategy
The rollout strategy is also becoming clearer, with reports indicating a beta program starting within the next two months. The Galaxy S24 series is expected to be the first to test the new update. The beta program could then be extended to older high-end devices like the Galaxy S23 series in the subsequent weeks.
Based on Samsung’s historical update timeline, a stable release of One UI 7.0 could be expected around October or November of this year. High-end and mid-range devices, including foldables, may receive the update before the end of 2024. On the other hand, entry-level and some mid-range phones might have to wait until the first quarter of 2025 for the update.
Samsung is also likely to enhance its AI capabilities, although specific details are currently scarce. We will keep you updated with any new information regarding One UI 7.0.
The development of Android 15 is progressing rapidly, with multiple beta builds already released. It has now reached the platform stability phase, which is the final stage before its public release.
Announced at the Google I/O developer conference in May, Android 15 has Xiaomi among its early adopters in the beta program. Currently, the Android 15 beta is available for the Xiaomi 14T, Xiaomi 13T Pro, and Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4, with more devices expected to join the list in the upcoming weeks and months.
New Features and Final Updates
The early builds have shown a variety of new and exciting features, generating anticipation for the stable release. Despite the excitement, Android 15 will be the last OS update for several Xiaomi devices.
Here is a comprehensive list of Xiaomi, Redmi, and Poco devices that will receive their final OS update with Android 15.
Xiaomi Devices
Xiaomi 13 Lite
Xiaomi 12 Pro
Xiaomi 12
Xiaomi 12T Pro
Xiaomi 12T
Xiaomi 12S Ultra
Xiaomi 12S Pro
Xiaomi 12S
Xiaomi Civi 2
Xiaomi Civi 1S
Xiaomi Mix Fold 2
Xiaomi Pad 5 Pro 12.4
Redmi Devices
Redmi Note 13 5G
Redmi Note 13
Redmi Note 13R Pro
Redmi Note 12
Redmi Note 12 Turbo
Redmi Note 12 Pro Speed
Redmi Note 12R
Redmi Note 12R Pro
Redmi Note 12T Pro
Redmi Note 12S
Redmi K60E
Redmi K50 Ultra
Redmi K50i
Redmi 13C 5G
Redmi 13C
Redmi 13R
Redmi 12 5G
Redmi 12
Poco Devices
Poco M6 Pro 5G
Poco M6
Poco X6 Neo
Poco F5 Pro
Poco F5
Poco C65
Poco C61
This list is unofficial and is based on the analysis of software update policies for each Xiaomi, Redmi, and Poco device.
Update Policies and Comparison
Typically, Xiaomi offers a maximum of three Android updates to its flagship phones. However, newer models, like the Xiaomi 14 series and 13T series, come with a promise of four OS updates.
Not just the flagship models, but newer mid-range phones, including the Redmi Note 13 series, are also getting an extra year of Android updates, while older models receive a maximum of two.
Similarly, Xiaomi has been offering a maximum of two OS updates to its Poco phones. However, recent models like Poco X6, X6 Pro, and M6 Pro 4G are promised three years of Android updates.
While these extended software support promises are appealing, Xiaomi still lags behind competitors like Samsung and Google, which now offer seven Android updates.
Android 15 Release Timeline
The official timeline for Android 15 is similar to last year’s Android 14. Therefore, the new OS is expected to be released around the same time, in October. However, this year Google seems to be in a rush.
The Made by Google event, usually held in October, is happening in August this year. As past leaks suggested, the Pixel 9 series will be launched at this event, running Android 15 out of the box. This means the stable version of Android 15 could be released as early as August, with the worst-case scenario being October.
Once the stable build is out, brands like Xiaomi will take extra time to optimize their custom skins (such as HyperOS) to work with the latest Android version. This typically takes a few days to weeks.
Fortunately, not everyone has to wait long for the latest features. Xiaomi has already opened access to the Android 15 beta to test the new OS before its public release. It’s currently available for Xiaomi 14, Xiaomi 13T Pro, and Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4, with more models to follow in the coming days and weeks. However, these beta builds might contain bugs and several features may not work properly.
Key Features of Android 15
Android 15 brings a plethora of new features and improvements. Here are the most notable ones:
Satellite Connectivity Support
Android 15 extends platform support for satellite connectivity, enabling SMS, MMS, and native RCS apps to send and receive messages via satellites. It also includes UI elements to ensure a consistent user experience. Note that not all Android 15 phones may support this feature as it requires specialized chips and carrier support.
Private Space
This privacy-focused feature allows users to protect apps and files from prying eyes using a different Google account and lock. Files and apps in private space aren’t visible to other users.
Theft Detection Lock
Enhanced by the Find My Device network, the Theft Detection Lock feature automatically locks the device when someone snatches it and runs away. It works by detecting the motion and requires the device to be logged into the same Google account after a factory reset.
App Pairs
Users can save their favorite app combinations for split-screen mode, creating an icon that shows both apps. This is a time-saving feature for multitasking users.
Partial Screen Sharing
This feature allows users to share or record a single app rather than the entire screen, ensuring that sensitive notifications and reminders remain private.
App Archiving
Similar to iPhone’s app offloading, Android 15 allows users to uninstall unnecessary apps while keeping user data intact, enabling users to continue where they left off after reinstalling the app.
High-Quality Webcam
Android 15 improves video quality when using an Android smartphone as a webcam for a computer. A new “HQ” symbol in the webcam camera preview enables this high-quality mode, which disables power optimizations to enhance video quality.
Android 15 is nearing completion, with Google already rolling out early versions for developers and testers. These early builds have revealed a lot about the upcoming OS, showcasing new features and enhancements. Android 15 promises to be a significant upgrade, though many Android devices, including several Vivo and iQOO models, won’t receive the update.
In this post, I have compiled a list of Vivo and iQOO phones and tablets that won’t be eligible for the Android 15 upgrade. Check the list to see if you’ll need to consider upgrading to a newer model to enjoy the latest features.
Vivo, iQOO Phones Not Eligible for Android 15 Update
[Vivo X series]
Vivo X80 Lite
Vivo X70
Vivo X70 Pro
Vivo X70 Pro+
Older X-series devices
[Vivo V series]
Vivo V25
Vivo V25e
Vivo V25 Pro
Vivo V23 5G
Vivo V23 Pro
Vivo V21s
And all older V-series devices
[Vivo T series]
Vivo T1x
Vivo T1x 4G
Vivo T1 5G
Vivo T1 Pro
Vivo T1 (Snapdragon 680)
Vivo T1 (Snapdragon 778G)
[Vivo Y series]
Vivo Y200
Vivo Y100
Vivo Y100A
Vivo Y78
Vivo Y78t
Vivo Y56
Vivo Y55s (2023)
Vivo Y36
Vivo Y36 5G
Vivo Y28
Vivo Y27
Vivo Y27s
Vivo Y27 5G
Vivo Y17s
Vivo Y02t
Vivo Y02A
And all Y-series phones launched before 2023
[iQOO]
iQOO 10 Pro
iQOO 9 SE
iQOO 9 Pro
iQOO 9T
iQOO Z6
iQOO Z6 44W
iQOO Z6 Pro
iQOO Z6 Lite
iQOO Neo 6
And all older iQOO phones
These devices are unlikely to receive the Funtouch OS 15 update based on Android 15.
Please note that this list is not official. It is based on an analysis of the company’s software update policy and past rollouts.
Vivo’s Software Update Policy
Despite being a leading smartphone brand globally, Vivo lacks a clear software update policy for most of its devices. The brand doesn’t guarantee software updates for most of its phones and tablets, leaving users uncertain about the number of OS updates they can expect.
Typically, Vivo T and V-series phones receive two OS updates, while Y-series phones get just one. In 2021, Vivo promised three OS upgrades for select upcoming X-series models, an improvement from the previous two updates. This means their flagship phones can receive up to three Android updates.
Vivo needs to extend its OS update offerings, as competitors like Samsung and Google provide up to seven OS updates for their flagship phones. Even its sister brands, OnePlus and Oppo, offer up to five years of OS upgrades.
Android 15: Release Timeline for Vivo Phones
Google recently released the third beta of Android 15, marking a significant milestone as it entered the “platform stability” phase. This means all major changes are integrated, and the focus now shifts to polishing and bug fixes for the final release.
While there’s no official release date for Android 15, the timeline is similar to last year’s Android 14. If trends continue, the stable version of Android 15 might be released in October.
Thanks to the Android 15 beta program, many Vivo users are already experiencing the new OS. Currently, the beta program is available for Vivo X100 and iQOO 12, with more devices expected to join in the coming weeks and months. The stable build is likely to roll out around October.
New Features in Android 15
Android 15 introduces several new features and enhancements. Here are some of the major changes:
Private Space: This feature allows users to hide secret apps and files under an additional layer of protection using a separate user profile and a different lock. Activities in Private Space are hidden from other users, and apps used in this space don’t show in recent apps.
Satellite Connectivity: Android 15 extends support for satellite connectivity, enabling SMS, MMS, and preloaded RCS apps to use satellites for messaging. The OS also includes UI elements for satellite connectivity and lets apps detect satellite connections.
Theft Detection Lock: The device locks itself if it detects suspicious activities, such as someone running away with it or multiple failed login attempts. The device will require the original Google account to set up after a factory reset, rendering it useless to thieves.
App Pairs: This feature allows users to create shortcuts for favorite split-screen combinations, saving time when using multiple apps in split-screen mode. It is restricted to wide-screen devices like tablets and foldable phones.
Partial Screen Sharing: Users can share or record a particular screen rather than the entire window, enhancing privacy by preventing accidental exposure of sensitive information.
OnePlus has started distributing the second beta update for Android 15 to the OnePlus 12 and OnePlus Open smartphones.
This update is still in its early development stages, and the company advises that it’s “best suited for developers and other advanced users.” They caution against using it if you lack experience in software development or if you intend to use the device as your primary phone. Therefore, it’s recommended to download the update only if you’re comfortable with navigating potentially unstable software.
Focus on System Stability and Performance
According to the official announcement on the OnePlus forum, Android 15 Beta 2 aims to enhance system stability and performance. Additionally, it includes a fix for the Auto Pixelate function that wasn’t working during screenshot previews. OnePlus Open devices, in particular, will also benefit from a fix for issues encountered in split-screen mode.
Known Issues
However, keep in mind that this is still a beta update and comes with some issues. OnePlus has identified several problems in the latest build.
For OnePlus 12 users, there may be issues when playing music, using Air Gestures, switching camera modes, and selecting icon styles in the Wallpapers & Style settings. There are also reports of probabilistic stability issues.
OnePlus Open users will face similar issues with music playback, Air Gestures, and icon styles. Additionally, recent task cards might not disappear after splitting the screen, photos may lack the ProXDR button, the booting animation might be incomplete, and the taskbar may display abnormally when using floating windows. You can review the full changelog and issues at this link.
Participation in the Beta Program
Those interested in joining the beta program can find instructions on the OnePlus forum. If you choose to update, ensure that you back up your data beforehand, as the installation process will wipe the phone clean.
Google’s annual hardware showcase, the Made by Google event, is coming earlier this year. Traditionally held in October, the 2024 edition is set for August 13th at Google’s Mountain View, California headquarters, rather than its usual New York City venue. Although Google has kept details under wraps, leaks, rumors, and the official invite teaser offer some clues about what to expect. Here’s a summary of the anticipated highlights.
Pixel Lineup in Focus
For years, the Pixel series has been the highlight of Made by Google events, and 2024 appears to be no exception. The event’s teaser video features the Roman numeral IX (9), indicating the imminent arrival of the Pixel 9 series.
Current leaks and rumors suggest the Pixel 9 family will include four devices:
Pixel 9: The base model, expected to replace the Pixel 8.
Pixel 9 Pro: A higher-end version with enhanced camera specs and processing power.
Pixel 9 Pro XL: A new, larger variant of the Pixel 9 Pro for those who prefer a bigger screen.
Though detailed information is limited, these devices are expected to feature Google’s upcoming Tensor G4 chip. In fact, three Pixel 9 models, excluding the foldable, have already been spotted running AnTuTu with the anticipated G4 chip.
Beyond Pixel Phones
While smartphones will undoubtedly be the main focus, Google might reveal other hardware products as well. One strong possibility is the Pixel Watch 3, the successor to 2023’s Pixel Watch 2.
Rumors indicate that the Pixel Watch 3 will be available in two sizes: the standard 41mm and a new XL model with a 45mm display. Given that Pixel phones are expected in August, the Pixel Watch 3 could be unveiled around the same time.
There’s also a chance Google could introduce other hardware at the event, such as new Pixel Buds or a Nest smart home device. However, there haven’t been substantial leaks or rumors pointing to these announcements.
Android 15
The Made by Google event isn’t limited to hardware. Google is likely to dedicate part of the event to showcasing the next version of its mobile operating system, Android 15.
The first teaser, captioned “Get Ready for Magic at Made by Google,” hints at a focus on Google AI. We might see advancements in Assistant capabilities or new AI-powered features integrated into Pixel devices and other products.
Livestream
Specific details about the livestream haven’t been released yet. However, based on past events, it’s reasonable to expect a live stream on YouTube.
In conclusion, the Made by Google 2024 event will likely feature the next generation of Pixel smartphones, including a foldable model, alongside software updates like Android 15 and advancements in Google AI.
Google’s annual “Made by Google” events have traditionally been held in October-November, but this year, Google has taken everyone by surprise by scheduling the next event in California this August. This major event is anticipated to introduce the Pixel 9 series, Pixel Watch 3 XL, and the new Android 15 version.
Google surprises everyone by making the big event earlier
While the tech community was expecting Google to host its new event between October and November, the latest official announcement has taken many by surprise. The “Made by Google” event is now scheduled for August 13th. This unexpected shift has led to speculation that Google’s new products are ready ahead of time, prompting an earlier event.
Exciting Announcements Await
At the Made by Google event, Google is set to unveil the Pixel 9 series, the Pixel Watch 3 XL, and the new Android 15 version. The Pixel 9 series will include four different models: Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Alongside the new Pixel 9 series, Google also plans to introduce the Pixel Watch 3 XL. Another highlight of the event is the much-anticipated Android 15. Following the announcement, stable Android 15 updates will begin to roll out to compatible devices, promising users a more optimized experience.
Google has already rolled out early versions of Android 15, which promise a more thrilling experience compared to the last two iterations. Key highlights include Private Space for safeguarding private apps and files, app pairing for enhanced multitasking, Theft Detection Lock, new Health Connect features, and more.
Android 15 is poised to be an exciting upgrade, though it won’t be available for most Google Pixel phones. Check the list below to see if you’ll need to upgrade your device to enjoy the latest features and improvements.
These Google Pixel Phones Aren’t Eligible for Android 15
Pixel 5
Pixel 5a 5G
Pixel 4
Pixel 4 XL
Pixel 4a
Pixel 4a 5G
Pixel 3
Pixel 3 XL
Pixel 3a
Pixel 3a XL
And older Pixels
These devices are likely to miss out on the Android 15 update, based on a review of each Google Pixel device’s software update policy.
Google Pixel’s Software Update Policy: The Good and the Bad
Google Pixels have been known for their excellent software update policies, and recent changes have made it even harder for users to consider other smartphones over Pixels.
Until the Google Pixel 7 series, the brand provided 3 years of Android updates. The launch of the Pixel 8 brought a surprising 7 years of OS updates, a move that astonished the smartphone industry.
While this is great news for Pixel 8 owners, older Pixel users are disappointed as Google didn’t extend OS upgrades for them. This means Android 16 might be the final OS update for the Pixel 7, but the Pixel 8 will receive updates until 2021.
Google was the first to announce 7 years of OS updates, and Samsung quickly followed by offering the same support for the Galaxy S24 series.
Android 15 Release Timeline
Google employs a three-step strategy for Android OS releases, applicable to Android 15 as well. The first phase is the developer preview, where early builds are released for developers.
The initial developer preview build for Android 15 arrived in February, followed by a second one in March. April marked the beginning of the second phase with the first beta release, making it available for public testing.
Multiple beta builds of Android 15 have already been released, with the latest being Beta 2.2. More beta releases are expected before the OS reaches the platform stability phase, preparing for the stable release.
According to the official timeline, platform stability should start around July-August. Although the timeline doesn’t specify the stable release month, it suggests that Google is following last year’s pattern, likely making Android 15 publicly available in October.
Top Features in Android 15
Private Space: Adds an extra layer of security for sensitive files and apps, similar to the Secure Folder on Samsung phones. This feature creates a separate space hidden from the regular one.
App Archiving: Enables unarchiving apps to save storage while retaining user data. Previously limited to Play Store apps, Android 15 integrates this feature at the OS level, allowing archiving/restoring of any apps, even those installed outside the Play Store.
Theft Detection Lock: Automatically locks the screen when suspicious activities like theft or multiple failed log-in attempts are detected. This feature prevents the device from being set up with a different Google account unless the original credentials are known.
App Pairs: Allows users to save their favorite split-screen combinations for quicker access. A shortcut is created on the home screen to instantly open both apps in split-screen mode.
Improved Health Connect: Includes new data types across fitness, nutrition, and more. Beta 2 introduces skin temperature and training plans as additional data types.
Partial Screen Sharing: Allows users to share or record a single app rather than the entire screen.
Notification Cooldown: Prevents users from being overwhelmed by successive notifications from the same app by lowering the volume.
Which Google Pixel do you have? What are the Android 15 features you’re most excited about? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.
