What you need to know
- Google has released the first Android 15 beta for Pixel owners and eligible developers.
- The first beta version of Android 15 helps with the app experience on larger screens, updating app archiving and more for those with braille displays.
- The first beta marks Google’s beta milestone for Android 15, and the company says it still plans to move to “platform stability” by June.
Google released the first beta version of Android 15 today (April 11), and with it comes several important features that registered testers should know about.
According to Google, the first beta version of Android 15 is coming for the Pixel 5a to the latest Pixel 8 series devices. This also includes the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet. The first beta version of Android 15 brings more awareness to how larger screens (foldables/tablets) experience apps. Google states that it has enabled edge-to-edge software capabilities for apps by default.
This update primarily benefits developers because they no longer have to tell the app to explicitly enable such capabilities. Additionally, app builders will find Google’s Material 3 Composer available for additional help.
Android 15 gets additional support for app archiving. Google says the first beta version of the software features OS-level support for archiving and unarchiving unused apps for use by “all app stores.” The OS will remove the cumbersome API and cached files, but will leave the user data.
Because of this, Google says users will see the app remain in their device’s launcher with an icon highlighting its “archived” state.
The company continues its push for better security with Android 15, introducing “Key management” for E2EE (end-to-end encryption). The beta will offer such OS-level management for the Contact Key API. In turn, this will allow users to easily manage and verify another user’s contact information.
Even more inclusivity is coming to Android 15 as the initial beta opens its doors to test TalkBack’s support for braille displays. The software is only compatible with braille displays using the HID standard via USB and secure Bluetooth.
Google says it plans to achieve “platform stability” for its next major OS release by June. The company is right on track with its desired development timeline for Android 15. Users should expect beta versions in April and May before we finally move into the stability phase. Those involved in the beta are encouraged to provide feedback as the process continues.
The company’s second Android 15 development preview arrived in late March and was dedicated to Google’s upcoming satellite connectivity. The company is preparing to introduce satellite capabilities for users’ SMS/MMS and RCS chats when they are without Wi-Fi or a cellular connection. In addition, Google stated that it will continue to tighten user security measures to improve its capabilities in Android 15.