The unveiling of Android 15 has the tech community abuzz with anticipation. As Google continues its tradition of refining its operating system, Android 15 emerges with a host of features aimed at enhancing user experience, security, and developer capabilities.
Here’s everything we know so far about Android 15
Let’s delve into what we know so far about Android 15, how enthusiasts can get a taste of its developer preview, and when users in South Africa can expect its arrival.
Android 15 Features We Know So Far
Android 15 is not just another update; it’s a significant leap forward in Android‘s evolution. With a focus on user privacy and security, Android 15 introduces the Android AD Services extension to level 10, incorporating the latest version of the Privacy Sandbox on Android.
This initiative is designed to improve user privacy while enabling personalized advertising experiences.
Another highlight is the integration of Health Connect by Android, providing a secure and centralised platform for managing and sharing health and fitness data.
This update brings support for new data types across fitness and nutrition, among others.
In terms of file security, Android 15 introduces new APIs through the FileIntegrityManager, leveraging the fs-verity feature of the Linux kernel to protect files with cryptographic signatures, enhancing security against unauthorised modifications.
For those who share or record their screens, partial screen sharing is now supported, allowing for the sharing of just an app window rather than the entire screen, with user consent required for each capture session.
Android 15 also aims to support creators with new in-app camera controls, offering low-light enhancements and precise flash intensity adjustments.
Additionally, it extends Universal MIDI Packets (UMP) support to virtual MIDI apps, fostering creative composition and control.
On the performance front, the Android Dynamic Performance Framework (ADPF) sees new additions, including a power-efficiency mode for hint sessions and the ability to report GPU and CPU work durations, optimising device power and thermal management.
Developer productivity gets a boost with the addition of OpenJDK APIs, offering improvements around NIO buffers, streams, security, and more, ensuring compatibility across devices running Android 12+.
How to Test Developer Preview
For developers eager to explore Android 15, the Developer Preview is available for testing.
It provides everything needed to try out the new features, test apps, and provide feedback.
Developers can start by flashing a system image onto a Pixel device.
When will Android 15 be available in South Africa?
The official release date for Android 15 in South Africa, like the rest of the world, hinges on Google’s global rollout schedule.
Historically, Android updates are released simultaneously worldwide following the completion of developer and public beta testing phases.
Based on the information available, Android 15 is expected to reach platform stability in June 2024, with a global release to follow in the months afterwards.
The introduction of Android 15 marks another chapter in Google’s commitment to enhancing user privacy, security, and the overall ecosystem for developers and users alike.
With its advanced features and improvements, Android 15 is poised to offer a more secure, efficient, and enjoyable experience for Android users around the globe.
