Google Unveils Android 15: New Features to Enhance Security and User Experience
Alphabet Inc. GOOGLGOOG subsidiary Google has officially begun rolling out Android 15, the latest version of its mobile operating system, to Pixel devices today.
Key Updates in Android 15
The update introduces a variety of new security, privacy, and productivity features aimed at protecting users, especially from theft and unauthorized access to sensitive data. Additionally, it is tailored to improve the experience on larger devices, such as foldables and tablets.
Notable Features of Android 15
Enhanced Theft Detection and Recovery
A standout feature of Android 15 is the Theft Detection Lock. This tool uses artificial intelligence to automatically lock the device if it detects unusual movement, such as when someone runs or drives away with it. Users can also remotely lock their devices by using their phone number and completing a security check.
Additional security measures have been incorporated to prevent thieves from tampering with critical settings. For example, Android 15 requires authentication for actions such as removing a SIM card or turning off Find My Device. This makes it significantly harder for thieves to reset stolen devices. If someone enters the wrong access information multiple times, the device will trigger a lockdown.
A Private Space for Sensitive Applications
Android 15 also prioritizes user privacy with a new Private Space feature. This acts as a secure area for hiding sensitive apps, such as banking or social media. Apps placed in this private area will not show in the app list, recent apps view, notifications, or settings and can only be accessed with an additional authentication step. Users can even choose to hide the existence of this private area from the main device interface, maximizing security.
Improved Multitasking for Foldables and Tablets
Improvements in multitasking are significant for Android users on foldable devices and tablets. The new update offers an option to pin and unpin the taskbar on-screen for easy access to favorite applications like Google Photos or Gmail.
Additionally, a feature called App Pairing allows users to open two apps at once, for instance, Gmail alongside Google Drive, and drag and drop files between them. Users can conveniently save app combinations as a single icon for quick access in split-screen mode.
See Also: YouTube Rolls Out New Features Including Sleep Timer, Collaborative Playlists, And Enhanced Miniplayer For Better User Experience
Updates in Camera, Messaging, and Authentication
Android 15 brings a series of updates to camera, messaging, and authentication features:
- The Low Light Boost enhances image quality in low-light conditions, while third-party apps gain more control over features such as the flashlight.
- Apps using Passkeys for login now offer a streamlined authentication process, allowing users to log in with a single tap.
Seang Chau, VP and GM of Android Platform stated, “Your Android devices are always getting better thanks to new features and updates rolling out all the time—not just once a year.”
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Google
