Android 15 is just around the corner, expected to be previewed at Google I/O in May and likely launching alongside the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro Fold in August. While a smaller update compared to previous iterations, Android 15 still packs some exciting new features worth checking out. A public beta is already available, allowing users to experience these enhancements firsthand. Here are ten of the most compelling features:
1. Satellite Messaging for Emergencies
While Apple introduced satellite emergency calls on iPhones, Android 15 is taking a different approach. This new version will allow users to send SMS and MMS messages via satellite, a crucial feature for those venturing off-grid or into areas with limited network coverage. It remains to be seen if specific hardware will be required for this functionality.
2. Streamlined NFC Payments
Android 15 aims to make NFC payments even smoother. The updated system allows your phone to communicate with the NFC terminal but waits for your screen tap confirmation before processing the payment. This minor change could significantly improve your daily payment experience.
Google Pay
3. Easier Alternative Payment Options
Building on Android 14’s functionality, Android 15 simplifies choosing alternative payment apps. Selecting your preferred bank’s contactless payment app as the default Wallet is now much easier, with the setting moved to the Default Apps section for greater accessibility.
4. Selective App Screen-Sharing
Debuting on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, app-specific screen-sharing is coming to all Android 15 devices. This feature allows you to share only the active app’s content, enhancing privacy and control during online collaborations and presentations.
5. Enhanced PDF Handling
Android 15 boasts significant improvements to its built-in PDF reader. Expect faster rendering, along with native support for annotations, form editing, and password protection. These upgrades promise a more robust and versatile PDF experience.
6. Improved Camera Performance
Subtle yet impactful camera upgrades are coming with Android 15. “Low Light Boost” improves night shot previews by enhancing auto-exposure capabilities. More granular flash controls offer finer brightness adjustments, preventing overexposed images.
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7. Consistent Audio Levels with Loudness Control
“Loudness Control,” a system-wide feature in Android 15, monitors and adjusts media volume levels for consistency. This prevents jarring volume changes between different apps, ensuring a smoother listening experience.
8. Notification Cooldown for Reduced Interruptions
Android 15 introduces a “Cooldown” feature to manage notification overload. This setting prevents apps from sending a barrage of alerts in quick succession, silencing subsequent notifications and offering a reprieve from constant interruptions.
9. Enhanced Security with Screen Recording Detection
Boosting security, Android 15 allows apps to detect when screen recording is active. This feature protects sensitive information from being captured, either accidentally or maliciously, adding an extra layer of privacy.
10. Health Connect App Integration
The Health Connect app, previously in beta with Android 14, is potentially becoming a system app in Android 15. This centralized hub allows users to view health, nutrition, and fitness data from various third-party apps in one convenient location.
Beyond these highlighted features, Android 15 brings improvements to SDR/HDR image differentiation, Midi 2.0 support, multilingual recognition, performance enhancements, and battery optimization. Google may unveil more exciting features at its I/O keynote. Android 15 will be available for a wide range of Android phones, including the Google Pixel series and other leading Android devices.
