Google’s Gemini AI technologies will power the newly announced Pixel 9 phones. However, older models and phones from rival brands will also benefit from these improvements. At the recent Made by Google event and during Google I/O earlier this spring, enhancements to Android 15 — currently in beta for developers and early adopters — were showcased. These upgrades are set to transform how you use your Android phone every day. Here are 14 new features we are excited about, some powered by AI and others not.
1. Private Space in Android 15
Private Space is a new feature in Android 15 designed to secure sensitive apps. If someone gains access to your phone, you can rest easy knowing that certain apps are hidden in a secure spot at the bottom of your app drawer. You can lock this space with identity verification, and notifications from these apps remain hidden when the space is locked. For added security, you can hide the space from view and use a separate Google account tied to it.
2. Adaptive Vibration
Adaptive Vibration control adjusts the intensity of vibrations based on input from the microphone and other sensors. This means your phone will reduce vibration on a flat surface but increase it if the phone is in a motion-absorbing spot, like between couch cushions. You can find this control in Settings > Sound & vibration > Vibration & haptics.
3. Predictive Back
Predictive Back in Android 15 shows a preview of the app you are returning to when you drag from the left edge of the screen. This helps you see where the Back button will take you instead of relying on a swipe of faith.
4. Color Contrast Options on the Home Screen
A new option in the Wallpaper & style settings allows you to increase color contrast on the Home Screen. You can set the contrast to Default, Medium, or High and add a black or white background to blocks of text to differentiate items better.
To combat device theft, Android 15 includes a factory reset protection feature. This makes stolen phones less valuable for resale by preventing thieves from setting up the device after erasing it# 6. Theft Detection Lock
Theft Detection Lock uses AI and sensor data to detect sudden movements that indicate someone grabbing your phone. It automatically locks the phone in such situations. This feature will be available for Android 10+ devices later this year.
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Android 15 allows you to archive infrequently used apps to free up storage space without losing valuable data. On the App info screen, tap the Archive button to remove the app’s data. When needed, tap it again to redownload the app.
8. Automatically Turn Bluetooth Back On
A new setting in Bluetooth preferences, “Automatically turn on again tomorrow,” helps you remember to turn Bluetooth back on after turning it off for security or travel.
9. Low-Light Boost in the Camera
Low-Light Boost is a new auto-exposure mode in Android 15 that makes the image preview and video capture brighter in dark scenes. This feature helps you compose shots, lock focus, and scan QR codes in low-light conditions.
10. AR Content in Google Maps
Google Maps will soon include augmented reality (AR) content, overlaying additional information about landmarks, shops, and attractions around you. Floating arrows can also guide you along walking routes. This feature will be piloted in Singapore and Paris later this year.
11. Adding Items to Google Wallet from a Photo
Android 15 lets you take photos of important items like printed tickets and membership cards and store them in Google Wallet for easy access. This feature simplifies managing both electronic and paper items.
12. Enhanced Google Play Protect
Google Play Protect will use AI for live threat detection to improve fraud and abuse detection against apps that try to cloak their actions. This feature will be available to a wider Android audience, with some protections exclusive to Android 15.
13. AI-Powered Google Play Protect
Google Play Protect will use AI to detect threats in real-time, improving fraud and abuse detection against malicious apps. This on-device AI will alert both Google and the phone owner if nefarious apps attempt to mask their behavior.
14. Expanded Restricted Settings
Android 15 will include expanded restricted settings to protect one-time passwords from malware. These enhanced protections aim to provide a safer and more secure user experience.
Conclusion
Google’s Gemini AI and Android 15 are set to bring a host of exciting new features to both new and older Android phones. From enhanced security measures to innovative user interface improvements, these updates will significantly enhance how you interact with your device. With the beta already available, the official rollout of Android 15 promises to be a game-changer for Android users everywhere.
