Google rolled out Android 15 Developer Preview 2 on Thursday, offering developers a sneak peek into the upcoming major update for Android smartphones.
This latest preview brings an array of enhancements to existing features. Additionally, it introduces new functionalities that are tailored to leverage modern smartphone hardware, including support for foldable screens and satellite connectivity. Among the highlights is the ability for apps to detect screen recordings, a feature expected to be part of the initial open beta slated for release next month.
The standout feature in Android 15 is satellite connectivity. While device manufacturers could previously integrate support for such features, the official support from Google promises a more uniform user experience across different satellite networks. This includes the introduction of new UI elements like interactive notifications, a status bar icon, and the capability for apps to recognize satellite connections.
They have also made improvements to the Near Field Communication (NFC), which now enables smartphones to passively interact with NFC readers without actively responding. Additionally, apps running on Android 15 can now detect screen recordings, allowing them to safeguard sensitive information from being displayed during such sessions. This is similar to the functionality present in apps like Google Pay on iOS.
For foldable smartphones, particularly clamshell-style devices like the Motorola Razr 40 Ultra, and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5, Android 15 brings enhanced support for running apps on the smaller external cover screen.
As per Google’s announcement, app developers can now designate a property to enable the use of these apps on foldable phones’ cover screens, despite their compact size.
Android 15 also introduces support for the CTA-2075 loudness standard, ensuring consistent loudness levels across different types of content. This includes an update to the Settings app, introducing a new section called Audio Sharing, which is needed for facilitating management of Auracast sessions.
Android 15 DP2 has introduced satellite connectivity alongside a new screen recording detection function and much more pic.twitter.com/m11lkRjvCk
— Anthony (@TheGalox_) March 22, 2024
Developers can now specify HDR headroom levels for their apps, enabling a better balance between SDR and HDR content. Additionally, users gain control over app archiving via the Settings app, allowing for direct restoration or archiving of apps.
These features are currently accessible on the newest version of Android 15 DP 2 and are anticipated to be included in the forthcoming public beta releases set to be released in April.
However, some features may undergo further augmentation, refinement, or removal in future releases. We can expect to get a clear picture of Android 15’s features as the software progresses towards platform stability in June.
