Tag: Android 15

  • Android 15: Locate Your Smartphone Even When Off

    Android 15: Locate Your Smartphone Even When Off

    Finding a lost or misplaced Android phone can be a troubling ordeal, especially when the device is powered off. Google's Find My Device service, while helpful, faces constraints when the device is not connected. With the advent of Android 15, Google is addressing this challenge through the introduction of a new Powered Off Finding API.

    Enhanced Device Location with Android 15

    A recent article from Android Police reveals insights into how this API could aid in locating devices even when they are turned off. The mechanism involves storing pre-calculated Bluetooth beacons in the Bluetooth controller's memory.

    Hardware Requirements and Compatibility

    However, there is a requirement for specialized hardware to enable the device to power the Bluetooth controller, enabling its operation even when the phone is completely shut down. This functionality may necessitate a small battery reserve to remain active.

    Potential Device Compatibility

    Initial speculations hinted at the Pixel 9 being the first to feature this capability. Yet, the latest report from Android Police suggests that the Pixel 8 could also enjoy this functionality upon upgrading to Android 15.

    Apart from the hardware prerequisites, substantial software development efforts are essential to support the Bluetooth Finder HAL (Hardware Abstraction Layer). Users are advised to update to Android 15 and ensure they have the most recent version of Google's Find My Device service installed.

    Regrettably, older devices like the Pixel Fold, Pixel 7 series, and Pixel 6 series may not be as likely to receive this feature. It remains uncertain whether these devices lack the required hardware or if the limitations are solely software-related.

    Nonetheless, there is a potential for this feature to expand to select older devices in the future, especially for recent premium models like the Pixel Fold.

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  • Android 15 Introduces Satellite-Based Texting: What to Expect

    Android 15 Introduces Satellite-Based Texting: What to Expect

    Google's forthcoming mobile operating system, Android 15, is anticipated to introduce satellite connectivity capabilities for text messaging, as revealed in the most recent Android 14 beta by Mishaal Rahman from Android Authority.

    In the latest Android 14 beta, Google unveiled a novel "Satellite Messaging" section. This section suggests that users with qualifying mobile accounts may soon have the ability to "send and receive text messages via satellite." Once this feature becomes available, users can opt in by utilizing a designated button.

    Potential T-Mobile Collaboration

    While the beta page does not explicitly name a provider, clicking on the "More" button directs users to a T-Mobile page. This implies that T-Mobile could be involved in providing this functionality within Android 15.

    Leveraging SpaceX Technology

    T-Mobile has previously partnered with SpaceX to enhance connectivity in cellular black spots through satellite technology. SpaceX has deployed its "Direct to Call" satellites capable of supporting all LTE phones. Therefore, it is plausible that Google's upcoming Satellite Messaging feature will leverage this cutting-edge technology.

    The feature appears to cater to both routine communication needs and emergency scenarios. Nevertheless, there might be delays in message delivery and restricted coverage in specific regions, as highlighted on Google's page. Additionally, signal quality could be impacted by weather conditions and physical obstructions.

    Satellite SOS Functionality

    Google is also developing a "Satellite SOS" function, potentially in collaboration with Garmin Response, a support center equipped to aid users during challenging emergencies. This emergency feature will be exclusively reserved for critical situations and will also support text messaging.

    Though these specifics have not been officially verified, Google is actively exploring satellite-enabled connectivity for Android devices. The integration of satellite connectivity could significantly expand communication options for Android users, particularly those frequently confronted with poor cellular reception areas.

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  • Android 15 Introduces Notification Cooldown Feature to Address Notification Overload

    Android 15 Introduces Notification Cooldown Feature to Address Notification Overload

    While the first Android 15 developer preview focused less on visual overhauls, it introduces a practical feature called “Notification Cooldown.” This feature addresses the annoyance of constantly buzzing or beeping phones due to a stream of repetitive notifications.

    The concept is straightforward — if your phone receives multiple notifications from the same app within a short timeframe, Notification Cooldown progressively lowers the volume and vibration intensity of these subsequent notifications.

    Notification Cooldown Feature

    This offers relief from the distraction of endless buzzing caused by chatty contacts or active group threads. If you have apps where every notification is crucial, Google allows the option to apply Notification Cooldown exclusively to conversations.

    Also to note, this ‘cooldown’ isn’t permanent. After a brief pause in the conversation, notifications will go back to full volume. If you need all alerts at maximum volume (for work, or on-call situations), the feature can be easily disabled.

    Enabling/Disabling “Notification Cooldown”

    Google’s enabled this feature automatically in the developer preview, but if you’re using it, here’s how to customize it:

    1. Open your device’s “Settings” app.
    2. Tap on “Notifications”.
    3. Scroll down and choose “Notification Cooldown”.
    4. Your options:
      • “Apply cooldown to all notifications” for comprehensive quiet.
      • “Apply cooldown to conversations” to target chattiness.
      • “Don’t use notification cooldown” to turn the feature off entirely.

    The Future of Notification Cooldown

    As Android 15 progresses, Google could further improve Notification Cooldown. An ideal addition would be customization on a per-app basis, allowing users to fine-tune which apps have this calming feature applied.

    Even in its initial form, “Notification Cooldown” has the potential to simplify how we manage notifications on our devices.

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  • The first Android 15 Developer Preview is now being released by Google.

    The first Android 15 Developer Preview is now being released by Google.

    The first developer preview version of Android 15 has been released today, featuring minor privacy improvements and new features. As it is specifically designed for developers, it may not be suitable for daily driving so better wait for a little if you want to try it on your Pixel device. Google announced they might release the public beta version between March and April.

    Android 15 release timeline

    Android 15 will allow you to have more control over the ads you see in a more detailed manner. A new menu named “Ads” has been added under the “Privacy & security” section in settings, where you can check which apps are tracking your activity on your phone to show ads.

    FLEDGE API for app tracking prevention

    Some apps can provide personalized ads by tracking your activity on your phone. With the FLEDGE API in Android 15, you can now prevent apps from tracking you. This doesn’t mean that the ads on your device will be completely removed, but it ensures that your data will not be shared with the chosen 3rd party app.

    Partial screen recording

    Another new feature in Android 15 is the ability to perform partial screen recording. Instead of recording or casting the entire screen while screen recording, you can now record only a specific part of the app. This can be useful for users who frequently record their phone screen or have to cast their phone screen during a video call.

    Better camera optimization for 3rd party apps

    Another welcomed improvement is that Google is finally working on a better camera optimization for 3rd party apps. Images captured in a low-light environment will now be processed in real-time, giving you a simultaneous bright preview, just like it appears after tapping the shutter button. 3rd party apps can also benefit from improved preview images.

    The bad news is that the Android 15 Developer Preview is currently only available for the Pixel 6 series and newer Pixels. This means that the software support for devices in the Pixel 5 series has officially ended. Android 15 will be available for Pixel 6a, Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet.

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