Android has officially rolled out Android 15, marking a significant milestone in its mobile operating system journey. This latest version is now accessible through the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) and will soon be available on supported Pixel devices, with plans to extend to select models from prominent manufacturers such as Samsung, Lenovo, and Xiaomi in the coming months.
Android 15 releases to AOSP
With the launch of Android 15, the commitment to open-source development remains strong. By making the source code available via AOSP, Android cultivates an ecosystem where developers can innovate and contribute, enhancing the platform’s diversity. Developers are equipped with tools like Android Studio and Jetpack Compose, enabling them to create applications that operate seamlessly across a variety of devices. The release of the source code also provides a deeper insight into the inner workings of Android.
Android SDK upgrade assistant in Android Studio Koala feature drop
Android 15 introduces a suite of features designed to bolster productivity and expand app development capabilities:
- ApplicationStartInfo API: This new API delivers comprehensive insights into app startup processes, including 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: Provides detailed views into app storage usage, including file splits and metadata.
- PdfRenderer APIs: Enhancements now support rendering password-protected files, annotations, and form editing, optimized for local PDF viewing.
- OpenJDK and SQLite APIs: Introduces additional mathematical functions and improved SQLite capabilities for enhanced database operations.
- Canvas Drawing: New capabilities for 3D manipulation and complex shape creation have been added.
Improvements in typography and internationalization
Android 15 also brings noteworthy advancements in typography and internationalization:
- FontFamily API: Supports variable fonts, automatically adjusting axes to match the displayed text.
- NotoSansCJK Variable Font: Enhances text rendering for Chinese, Japanese, and Korean languages.
- Hiragana Font: Bundles the traditional Japanese Hiragana font, preserving accuracy in historical documents.
- JUSTIFICATIONMODEINTER_CHARACTER: Improves text justification for languages that utilize whitespace for segmentation.
App compatibility toggles in Developer Options
Camera and media enhancements
The update also enhances media and camera functionalities:
- HDR and SDR Content Control: Manages HDR headroom to prevent washed-out SDR content.
- Audio Loudness Adjustment: Adapts audio levels based on loudness metadata.
- Low Light Boost: Improves image previews and QR code scanning in low-light conditions.
- Advanced Flash Controls: Offers precise adjustments for flash intensity.
- Universal MIDI Packets Support: Extends MIDI support to virtual MIDI apps for enhanced composition capabilities.
Enhancing user experience
Android 15 introduces several improvements aimed at enhancing user experience:
- Split-Screen App Combinations: Users can save and access their favorite app combinations for improved multitasking.
- Edge-to-Edge Display: Apps targeting SDK 35 will display content edge-to-edge, featuring transparent system bars.
- Braille Display Support: TalkBack now accommodates a wider range of Braille displays.
- NFC and App Presentation: New features enhance NFC transactions and app presentation on small cover screens.
Android 15 privacy and security enhancements
Privacy and security enhancements are pivotal in Android 15:
- Private Space: Users can 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 mitigate potential abuse.
Preparing for Android 15
Developers are encouraged to prepare for Android 15 by updating SDKs, libraries, and tools to ensure compatibility. Testing should focus on new features and changes, including 16 KB page size support and private space functionality. The Android SDK Upgrade Assistant in Android Studio will assist developers in 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 participate in the Android 15 QPR beta program for early access. Developers and users are invited to follow the ongoing Spotlight Week series for comprehensive coverage of Android 15’s features. For further information, the Android blog, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube channels serve as valuable resources.
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