Android 15 "Vanilla Ice Cream" Review: A Comprehensive Look at the New Features - TechSpecInsight

Android 15, also code-named Vanilla Ice Cream is almost ready to roll out and in this article, we will explore every feature included in this update both major and minor. Currently, Android 15 is in its second beta version Testing Phase with the next few releases They focus on stability updates. This gives us a look of what the final release will look like though some features might be Change or added .

Supported Devices

Here is a list of devices that can currently install the Android 15 beta update. Be aware that updating to a beta version may introduce bugs and broken features.

Major Changes

New Android Logo

The Android logo is now a triangular shape with a small spaceship in the middle. It is great featured seen this Operating System especially in the Easter egg within this "About phone" section. Long-pressing the logo triggers an animation that makes the stars stretch and move faster simulating light speed this means it show the speed of this operating system, eventually loading the same spaceship game from Android 14.

App Pairs in Split Screen Mode

You can now save app pairs when using split screen mode. Simply open the recent page tap the icons and select "save app pair." A new icon will appear on your home screen for easy reopening of paired apps.

Redesigned Volume Panel

The volume panel now features thicker pill-shaped sliders and allows quicker access to additional features such as the audio picker for switching between connected devices and toggling live captions. The menu can also be collapsed for a cleaner look.

Private Space:

Similar to Samsung / Mi / Vivo Secure Folder, Private Space lets you download new apps and files that are separate from your main storage. These are locked and stored in an encrypted space accessible only via the bottom of the app drawer with a passcode or biometric verification. This space can even have a different screen lock from your main one.

App Archiving:

Android 15 allows you to archive apps manually via the app info page freeing up space while keeping parts of the app for faster reinstallation. Previously, app archiving was automatic and based on usage frequency.

Satellite Messaging

Some T-Mobile users can now access satellite messaging enabling them to text anyone including emergency services in remote areas. This feature is supported through a partnership with SpaceX. 

Bluetooth Auto-Enable:

Bluetooth will automatically turn back on the next day if turned off ensuring participation in the new Find My Device network which uses Bluetooth to help locate lost devices. This can be disabled in settings.

Quick Settings Bluetooth Tile:

The Bluetooth tile in Quick Settings now expands to let you quickly switch between paired devices.

Android as a Webcam:

A new high-quality mode button in the webcam preview screen enhances video quality useful for long video calls.

Default Wallet App:

You can now change your default wallet app to alternatives other than Google Wallet.

Pixel Launcher Improvements:

The widgets panel now has more recommendations in a swipe able format and categorizes pages. Apps can make widget recommendations more personal showing for example - a favorite contact picture in the contact widget.

Adaptive Vibration

Pixel users get adaptive vibration adjusting vibration intensity based on the environment using the phone microphone and sensors. This aims to save battery while ensuring you don not miss notifications.

Storage Chip Health Check

Android 15 allows you to check your storage chip health. similar to how you can check battery health. This requires an additional app like Activity Launcher from the Play Store.

Desktop Mode Improvements:

Although not yet officially live desktop mode has several design tweaks, such as a new menu for transforming windows into different modes and improved window title bars.

Physical Keyboard Support:

• A preview of the selected keyboard layout and new accessibility features like Sticky Keys, Slow Keys and Bounce Keys enhance the typing experience for those with motor disabilities.

Minor Improvements

Screen Timeout Security:

Changing screen timeout settings now requires a passcode or biometric verification as does switching USB preferences when connecting to a computer.

Storage Menu Expansion:

The Storage menu now shows how much space the Android OS and system cache (Temporary Files) are using by application

User Profile Picture Choice:

When adding a user you can now choose to use the Google account profile picture. You can use multiple profile according to you family members.

Health Connect:

Adds new data types like skin temperature and training plans for better synchronization across health apps.

Video Stabilization:

Enhances video stabilization for third-party apps through a new camera extension even if the manufacturer does not support it.

Network Security:

New options warn when connecting to unencrypted networks and allow connections only to encrypted networks to prevent Data Security attacks.

Avoid WPA Wi-Fi:

Android 15 lets you avoid connecting to older, less secure old WPA Wi-Fi networks.

HDR-SDR Ratio:

• A new developer option shows the HDR-SDR composition ratio for photos.

Under-the-Hood Improvements:

Improved Standby Time:

Standby time is improved by up to 3 hours with optimizations like faster entry into Doze mode.

Fraud and Scam Protection:

Enhanced protection against malicious apps and better detection of suspicious apps using on-device AI.

Screen Options for Third-Party Apps:

Third-party apps can now change screen options like enabling grayscale tint disabling always-on display and turning on dark theme .similar to Google Digital Wellbeing features.

App Installation Restrictions:

You can no longer install apps targeting Android 6.0 or lower.
16-Kilobyte Page Sizes:

• Support for 16-kilobyte memory page sizes improves app performance. especially for those with heavy animations and effects.

Rumored Features

Status Bar Icon Redesign:

Potential updates to Wi-Fi, mobile data and battery icons. though opinions are mixed.

Force Dark Mode for Apps:

A new accessibility setting may force all apps into dark mode. Like MIUI operating 

Lock Screen Widgets:

Possible reintroduction for tablets with a smaller version for phones akin to iOS Live Activities. Possible to see new Options for Lock Screen Like Iphone , Samsung, Xiaomi.

NFC Wireless Charging:

Potential support for NFC-based wireless charging.

Smart Home Screen Saver:

A screen saver to control all smart home products similar to the home tile in Quick Settings.

Color Contrast Adjustment:

A new setting in the wallpaper and style page to adjust text, button and icon contrast.

Audio Sharing:

Bluetooth LE Audio support to share music with nearby devices initiated through a QR code.

Adaptive Timeout:

A setting to turn off the screen earlier if the device is not being used.

App Quarantine:

A feature to quarantine apps disabling their notifications and activities without uninstalling them. It save storage and save time for uninstall and installation of apps.

Higher Refresh Rates for Games

A developer option to disable the 60Hz limit, potentially allowing games to run at higher refresh rates.

Overall, Android 15 "Vanilla Ice Cream" brings a wealth of new features and improvements, enhancing the user experience and security of Android devices. While it may not be as visually revolutionary as Android 12, the update still offers significant enhancements across various aspects of the OS. If you're eager to try out these features, consider joining the Android 15 beta program.- 

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