Android 15: Release, Compatibility, Features & More | What to Expect

Android 15, also known by its reported codename Vanilla Ice Cream, is in its early stages of development, with the first developer preview recently released, offering a glimpse into Google’s upcoming Android update.

Amidst leaks of potential features and enhancements, anticipation builds for the public betas and final release.

Here’s what to anticipate with Android 15, including rumored features, expected release timeline, and compatible devices. Stay tuned for updates, as we’ll continuously refresh this article with the latest information.

Key Points:

• Android 15: The next significant iteration of Android.
• Release: Anticipated between August and October.
• Cost: Free update for eligible devices.

Android 15: Release Date

The initial Android 15 developer preview is now accessible for download, primarily aimed at developers, currently compatible with Pixel 6 and later models.

Leaked earlier by a Google developer via the Android Open Source Project, this early release may contain bugs and lacks substantial upgrades.

Google’s Dave Burke hints at an upcoming public beta in April, with a full release expected later in the year, aiming for platform stability by June.

Based on historical patterns, the finalized Android 15 version is projected between August and October. Android 14 debuted on October 4, 2023, while Android 13 arrived on August 15, 2022, making predictions challenging.

Android 15: Compatibility Overview

Pixel phones are expected to lead the pack with early access to previews and betas, along with prompt updates to the finalized Android 15. However, a wide array of other devices will also support Android 15.

Major manufacturers typically commit to a specific number of updates, providing insight into which phones will receive Android 15.

For Google devices, starting from Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro onwards, expect Android 15 support, including future models like Pixel 6a, Pixel 7 series, Pixel Fold, Pixel 8 series, and more. There’s a likelihood of Android 15 support for Pixel 5a 5G until August this year.

Samsung’s lineup including Galaxy S24 series, Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy S22 series, Galaxy S21 series, and foldable phones from Galaxy Z Fold 3 onwards, will likely receive Android 15. Additionally, numerous Galaxy A models such as A24, A33, A34, A53 5G, A54 5G, and A73, among others, are expected to be compatible.

Other brands like OnePlus (OnePlus 12, OnePlus 11, OnePlus Open), Sony (Xperia 1 V, Xperia 5 V), Xiaomi 13, and Motorola Razr Plus 2023, are anticipated to support Android 15.

Generally, mid-range or higher devices less than two years old at the Android 15 launch are likely candidates for the update, with many older and budget-friendly phones also included.

Android 15 is also anticipated to feature on various Android tablets such as Pixel Tablet and Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 series.

Android 15: Potential Features Revealed

While specifics on Android 15 remain uncertain, several potential features have surfaced. Here’s what we know so far:

1. Battery Health Percentage:
   Android 15 may introduce a battery health percentage feature, displaying the estimated charge capacity compared to the original capacity. This would assist users in assessing battery wear and diagnosing potential issues causing increased drain.
2. Lock Screen Widgets:
   Android 15 might reintroduce lock screen widgets through a feature dubbed ‘Communal Space,’ discovered in recent Android beta versions. This feature would enable users to add widgets to the lock screen, but it currently supports only select Google apps and devices with Hub mode, like the Pixel Tablet.
3. Private Space:
   Android 15 could introduce a feature akin to Samsung’s Secure Folder, dubbed Private Space. This hidden area would safeguard sensitive apps behind a PIN, pattern, password, or biometric protection. Apps downloaded within Private Space would remain secluded, providing privacy when sharing devices.
4. Bluetooth Auracast:
   Android 15 might incorporate Bluetooth Auracast, facilitating audio sharing over Bluetooth. This feature enables multiple Bluetooth headphones to sync with a single audio stream, fostering shared listening experiences. QR codes could streamline connections without traditional pairing.
5. Easy Mode:
   Google is exploring an “easy pre-set” feature, aimed at simplifying the Android UI for improved readability and navigation. Enlarged icons, bold text, and bottom navigation buttons would enhance accessibility, benefiting users with varying tech proficiency and impairments.
6. App Archiving:
   Android 15 may introduce manual app archiving, allowing users to selectively archive apps to reclaim storage space. This feature, hinted at in Android code, preserves app icons without full uninstallation, streamlining app management and storage optimization.
7. Saved App Pairs:
   A forthcoming feature in Android, potentially in Android 15, enables users to save pairs of frequently used apps for quick access in split-screen mode. This feature, discovered in recent Android betas, promises enhanced multitasking efficiency.

These anticipated features in Android 15 showcase Google’s commitment to enhancing user experience and device functionality.