Google has released the first developer preview of Android 15, the next major version of its mobile operating system. The preview is available for select Pixel devices and offers a sneak peek at some of the new features and improvements that Android 15 will bring. Here is what you need to know about Google’s latest OS.
Android 15 is codenamed Vanilla Ice Cream
Google has revealed that Android 15 is internally codenamed Vanilla Ice Cream, following the alphabetical order of its previous versions. However, this name is not meant for public use, as Google has stopped using dessert names for its OS releases since Android 10. Android 15 will likely be referred to as Android V by developers and enthusiasts.
Android 15 preview is aimed at developers
The first Android 15 preview is not a public beta, but a developer preview that is intended for app developers and testers. It is not stable or complete, and may contain bugs and missing features. It is not recommended for regular users, as it may cause issues with their devices or apps. To install the preview, users need to download it from Android Studio and sideload it via a USB connection.
Android 15 preview supports Pixel 6 and later devices
The first Android 15 preview is compatible with Pixel 6 and later devices, including Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 8, and Pixel 8 Pro. It is also expected to support the upcoming Pixel 9 series, which will likely launch later this year. Older Pixel devices, such as Pixel 5a, Pixel 5, and Pixel 4a, will not get the preview, as they have reached the end of their update cycle.
Android 15 preview introduces new features and enhancements
While the first Android 15 preview does not reveal all the features and changes that the final version will have, it does offer some hints at what to expect. Some of the new features and enhancements that have been spotted or rumored include:
- Private Spaces: A feature that allows users to hide or lock certain apps, photos, or other sensitive data in a private area that can only be accessed with a password, PIN, or biometric authentication.
- Auracast: A technology that uses Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) to broadcast audio to nearby compatible devices, such as headphones, speakers, or smartwatches.
- Lock screen widgets: A feature that lets users access certain functionalities of supported apps without unlocking their phone, such as checking the weather, playing music, or controlling smart home devices.
- App archiving: A feature that automatically archives unused apps to free up storage space and improve performance, without deleting their data or settings.
- Security State API: An API that enhances the security of smartphones by detecting and preventing malicious or harmful activities, such as rooting, tampering, or exploiting vulnerabilities.
Android 15 preview is the first of many
The first Android 15 preview is just the beginning of the development process, and Google will likely release more previews and betas in the coming months, adding more features and fixing bugs. The public beta program, which allows users to opt in and download the update over the air, will probably start in April or May. The final release of Android 15 will likely happen between August and October, along with the launch of the Pixel 9 series.
