Android 15 beta Archives

AppWizard

March 7, 2025

Android’s Linux Terminal app is now widely available on Pixels, and here’s how to get it

The Android Linux Terminal app has launched for Pixel users with the March 2025 update, allowing a fully functional Linux environment on smartphones. Users can activate it by enabling the Linux development environment in Settings > System > Developer options, followed by a download of approximately 567MB. The terminal supports basic commands and is built on the Debian framework, operating within a virtual machine via the Android Virtualization Framework (AVF). It currently lacks GUI app support, but enhancements are expected in future updates, with GUI support anticipated in Android 16.

AppWizard

February 3, 2025

Google Phone app gets an unexpected Android 16-inspired redesign (APK teardown)

Google is refining the Settings page for its Phone app in preparation for the segmented Settings menu design expected with Android 16. The update features a visually appealing layout with backgrounds for menu items organized under headers, enhancing visibility and usability. Rectangular sections for each menu item improve touch targets and overall user experience. This redesign was initially seen in the Android 15 Beta 3 update but was removed, only to be reinstated in the Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2 release, suggesting integration into Android 16. Screenshots show a light gray background in light theme and dark gray in dark mode, with support for dynamic theming based on user wallpaper. The redesign is not yet active in the current beta but is anticipated in future updates. Other Google applications may also receive similar enhancements as Android 16 approaches.

AppWizard

December 26, 2024

Recap: Pixel updates, Feature Drops, and new apps in 2024

In 2024, Made by Google released multiple updates for the Pixel phone, introducing new features and enhancing existing functionalities across six updates. - January Feature Drop: Launched with the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, it included the Pixel Thermometer app for forehead temperature readings, Circle to Search, and the rebranding of Quick Share from Nearby Share. - March Feature Drop: Introduced with Android 14 QPR2, it featured an expandable Bluetooth Quick Settings Tile, a Material You volume slider, new casting options, and a "Hello?" button for the Call Screen feature. The Pixel Tablet received the Gboard Voice Toolbar. - June Feature Drop: Marked by the early launch of the Pixel 8a, it introduced Audio Emoji, Display Port Support for external screens, Gemini Nano technology, and camera improvements for various Pixel models. The Android 14 QPR3 update focused on minor tweaks. - Pixel 9 Series Launch: Debuted alongside Android 14, backporting features from the Android 15 Beta. Introduced three new applications: Pixel Screenshots, Pixel Studio, and Pixel Weather, along with Gemini Live and on-device Call Notes. - Android 15/October Drop: Introduced Android 15 with a Private Space option, Predictive Back functionality, a redesigned screenshot interface, underwater photography capabilities for the Pixel 9 series, and an enhanced Adaptive Vibration feature. - December Drop: Included Android 15 QPR1 with a Material You redesign for Settings, charging optimization, enhancements to the Pixel Screenshots app, a clear voice feature for the Pixel Recorder, broader rollout of contextual replies for Gemini, and Dual Screen Portrait Mode for foldable devices. Google extended Android OS updates for the Pixel 6 and 7 series.

AppWizard

November 23, 2024

Android 15 QPR1 Beta 3.1 rolls out ahead of expected December launch

Google is rolling out Android 15 QPR1 Beta 3.1 for Pixel 6 and newer devices, including the Pixel Tablet, focusing on bug fixes and system stability enhancements. The update is available automatically for users still on Android 15 QPR1, with a build number of AP41.240925.012. Key fixes include resolving media control issues, problems with Bluetooth volume control, inconsistencies in scrollbar sizing, and NFC payment failures. The update aims to improve overall user experience ahead of the public release next month.

AppWizard

October 16, 2024

Android 16: Eligible devices, release date, and new features

Android 15 has officially transitioned to a stable release and is being rolled out to eligible Pixel devices. Not all features from the beta testing phase have made it to the stable version, with some features like the predictive back gesture being implemented only now. Android 16 is expected to debut in preview builds by the end of February 2025 and will reach a broader range of devices than previous versions, with many brands committing to at least three Android OS updates for budget and mid-range smartphones. The Pixel 7 series will receive Android 16, while older models will continue to receive feature updates and security patches. Google has promised seven years of software updates for devices like the mid-range Pixel 8a. Android 16's internal codename is Baklava. New features in Android 16 include notification cooldown to reduce notification volume from the same app, a native desktop mode, the ability to limit battery charging to 80%, and enhanced audio sharing capabilities for casting music to multiple Bluetooth devices. Google is expected to launch a developer preview in the first quarter of the year, with public beta builds around May and a stable release anticipated in the fourth quarter.

AppWizard

October 10, 2024

Android 16 could introduce a big Do Not Disturb upgrade and let you put apps in bubbles

Android 16 is rumored to introduce new features, including Priority Modes, which enhance the Do Not Disturb functionality by allowing users to create multiple custom modes with unique settings and icons. Users can schedule these modes for specific times and control which notifications can interrupt them. Additionally, Priority Modes can alter the device's visual experience by disabling the always-on display, changing the screen to black and white, and dimming the wallpaper. Another potential feature is a 'Bubble' option that enables apps to be launched in a bubble format for improved multitasking. This feature is expected to be mandatory for app developers, though it is not fully operational in the current Android 15 beta. The official launch timeline for these features is uncertain, but they may debut with Android 16.

AppWizard

October 8, 2024

Android’s new single app screen sharing feature is getting less restrictive

Android 15 introduces a more private screen recording system that allows users to record or cast a single app, reducing the risk of sharing sensitive information. Currently, users must terminate the session to switch apps, but Google is developing a solution to enable app switching without interrupting the session. The screen sharing system pauses recording when switching apps, and a notification appears indicating that sharing will pause, with options to return to the original app or share the new app, although the latter option is not fully functional yet. This partial screen sharing feature was first introduced in the March Android 14 QPR2 update and has been expanded to all Android devices with Android 15. The latest Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2 update includes a status bar chip displaying the recording duration, allowing users to end the session easily. The timeline for the new task switcher feature's rollout is uncertain.

AppWizard

September 7, 2024

Facing Google Maps app crashes on Android? Try this quick fix

Several Android users are experiencing crashes with Google Maps, affecting both stable and beta versions 11.144.x and 11.145.x. The issue is reported on various devices, including Pixel and Samsung Galaxy phones, where the app closes unexpectedly after a few seconds. The problem is more pronounced among users of the Android 15 Beta, but stable version users are also affected. Temporary solutions include uninstalling recent updates or reverting to an older version of the app. Google has not yet acknowledged the issue or provided a fix. Users not experiencing problems are advised to pause updates until a resolution is confirmed.

AppWizard

September 6, 2024

How to Resolve Google Maps Crashes on Android: A Step-by-Step Guide – PUNE.NEWS

Many Android users are experiencing crashes with the Google Maps app, particularly in versions 11.144.x and 11.145.x. This issue affects various Android devices, including Pixel and Samsung Galaxy phones, and is more common among users on the Android 15 Beta. A temporary solution is to uninstall recent updates through the App Info page of Google Maps, as a complete uninstallation is not possible. Google has not yet acknowledged the issue or provided a timeline for a permanent fix.

AppWizard

August 27, 2024

Google Confirms Android 15 Public Version Release In

On August 27, 2024, Google announced the completion of beta 4.2 for Android 15 and is preparing for the Quarterly Platform Release 1, with a public release expected in October. Google advised Android Beta Program users, specifically Pixel device users, to wait for the official version and provided a downgrade option from Android 15 beta 4.2 to Android 14. Reports indicate that the stable version of Android 15 may not be released by mid-October, and the upcoming Pixel 9 series smartphones might launch with Android 14 and a September 2024 security patch. The developer community has expressed mixed feelings about the delay, originally scheduled for July. Despite the stability of beta 4.2, Google aims to ensure thorough stabilization before the rollout. New Android devices are expected to feature enhancements from the Android 15 beta, including Private Space, an updated Material You volume panel, and improvements to the widgets picker.