Android has officially unveiled Android 15, the latest iteration of its mobile operating system, now available through the Android Open Source Project (AOSP). This new version will be rolling out to supported Pixel devices over the coming weeks and will also be available on select devices from manufacturers including Samsung, Honor, iQOO, Lenovo, Motorola, Nothing, OnePlus, Oppo, realme, Sharp, Sony, Tecno, vivo, and Xiaomi in the upcoming months.
Android 15 releases to AOSP
With Android 15, Android continues its commitment to open-source development. By releasing the source code through AOSP, Android fosters an environment where developers can build upon and contribute to the platform, driving innovation and diversity within the ecosystem. Developers can utilize Android Studio and Jetpack Compose to craft applications that function seamlessly across various devices. Access to the source code also allows for a deeper understanding of Android's internal workings.
Android SDK upgrade assistant in Android Studio Koala feature drop
Android 15 introduces several notable features aimed at improving productivity and expanding app development capabilities:
- ApplicationStartInfo API: This new API provides detailed insights into app startup processes, including reasons, timing, and performance metrics.
- Profiling Class: The updated ProfilingManager API in Android Jetpack simplifies the collection of telemetry data, such as heap profiles and system traces.
- StorageStats API: Offers detailed views into app storage usage, including file splits and metadata.
- PdfRenderer APIs: Enhancements include support for rendering password-protected files, annotations, and form editing, with optimizations for local PDF viewing.
- OpenJDK and SQLite APIs: Introduces additional mathematical functions, util updates, and improved SQLite capabilities for better database operations.
- Canvas Drawing: Adds new capabilities for 3D manipulation and complex shape creation.
Improvements in typography and internationalization
Android 15 brings significant advancements in typography and internationalization:
- FontFamily API: Supports variable fonts, automatically adjusting the wght and ital axes to match the displaying text.
- NotoSansCJK Variable Font: Enhances text rendering for Chinese, Japanese, and Korean languages.
- Hiragana Font: Bundles the old Japanese Hiragana font, adding distinctive design elements while preserving accuracy in historical documents.
- JUSTIFICATION_MODE_INTER_CHARACTER: Improves text justification for languages like Chinese and Japanese that use whitespace for segmentation.
App compatibility toggles in Developer Options
Camera and media enhancements
The update also includes several improvements for media and camera experiences:
- HDR and SDR Content Control: Allows management of HDR headroom to prevent washed-out SDR content.
- Audio Loudness Adjustment: Adapts audio levels based on loudness metadata.
- Low Light Boost: Enhances image previews and QR code scanning in low-light conditions.
- Advanced Flash Controls: Provides precise adjustments for flash intensity.
- Universal MIDI Packets Support: Extends MIDI support to virtual MIDI apps for improved composition capabilities.
Enhancing user experience
Android 15 introduces several user experience improvements:
- Split-Screen App Combinations: Enables users to save and access their favorite app combinations for better multitasking.
- Edge-to-Edge Display: Apps targeting SDK 35 will display content edge-to-edge, with transparent system bars.
- Braille Display Support: TalkBack now supports a broader range of Braille displays.
- NFC and App Presentation: New features for NFC transactions and app presentation on small cover screens.
Android 15 privacy and security enhancements
Privacy and security are central to Android 15's updates:
- Private Space: Allows users to create a secure area for sensitive apps, protected by additional authentication.
- Passkey Sign-In: Supports one-tap sign-in and autofill for saved credentials.
- Activity Recording Detection: Apps can now detect when they are being recorded.
- PendingIntent Restrictions: Blocks background activity launches by default to prevent potential abuse.
Preparing for Android 15
Developers are advised to prepare for Android 15 by updating SDKs, libraries, and tools to ensure compatibility. Testing should focus on new features and changes, such as 16 KB page size support and private space functionality. The Android SDK Upgrade Assistant in Android Studio will guide developers through the process of updating to target Android 15.
Getting started with Android 15
Supported Pixel devices will receive the Android 15 update over the air. Users can also join the Android 15 QPR beta program for early access. Developers and users are encouraged to follow the ongoing Spotlight Week series for comprehensive coverage of Android 15’s features. For more information, visit the Android blog, X, LinkedIn, or YouTube channels.