Android 15 Beta 4

AppWizard
August 27, 2024
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.
AppWizard
August 23, 2024
The first stable build of Android 15 is anticipated among users of the Pixel 9 series and other eligible Pixel devices, with Google offering the Android 15 QPR1 Beta that includes new features. A notable feature in the Android 15 QPR1 Beta is the predictive back gesture, which now provides a preview of the app or section users will return to after executing the back gesture. This feature, initially introduced in Android 14, is being integrated into keyboards, causing them to fade away when the back gesture is performed. Several applications, including Gmail, support this feature, enhancing navigation. Additionally, Android 15 QPR1 is expected to introduce new animations for Quick Settings tiles and reboot processes.
AppWizard
August 16, 2024
Google has released the final scheduled beta for Android 15, enabling developers to stabilize APIs and publish apps on Google Play. Key features include: - Package Stopped State: Apps are halted until user interaction, with pending intents canceled and widgets disabled. - 16 KB Memory Pages: New memory management improves app launch times and reduces power consumption, requiring apps using native code to be rebuilt. - Private Space Feature: Users can create secure spaces for sensitive information, halting all app activities when locked. New user experience features include: - Predictive Back Animations: Help users anticipate gesture outcomes. - Low Light Boost: Enhances camera performance in dim conditions. - Partial Screen Sharing: Allows sharing of specific app windows. - Edge-to-Edge Rendering: Provides a more immersive visual experience. Developers are encouraged to adopt these features and upgrade to Android Studio Koala for easier app modifications.
AppWizard
August 14, 2024
Google has begun the rollout of the final patch for the Android 15 beta, specifically the Android 15 Beta 4.2 patch, for enrolled Pixel testers. This update addresses several issues affecting Pixel devices, including: - Resolution of a low frame rate issue linked to the camera. - Correction of a color saturation problem in the Pixel camera. - Fixing delays in device wake-up times. - Elimination of a gray transparent bar that appeared while using the camera. - Addressing a crash issue when changing zoom values in the camera. - Resolving UI flickering problems. - Fixing crashes within the YouTube app. The update is expected to be available for devices including the Pixel 6, Pixel 7, Pixel 8 series, Pixel Fold, and Tablet. Enrolled users can check for the update in Settings > System > System Updates. Google will soon start testing for Android 15 QPR1, which will include the December feature drop for Android 15. Pixel owners in the original Android 15 beta testing do not need to exit the program to access QPR1 testing, but those wanting the stable version must opt out. The final Android 15 beta update is anticipated to lead to the launch of the finished product in September.
AppWizard
August 9, 2024
In April, discussions about Google's plans to improve Android's desktop mode began, with early demonstrations suggesting a more user-friendly experience featuring movable windows. This project re-emerged in the Android 15 Beta 4.1 release, where a new "Desktop" button was added to the 'Recents' view for applications, enabling users to minimize, maximize, and arrange apps side by side. The taskbar at the bottom displays all open applications, creating a multitasking environment. The desktop mode may also extend to tablets with large displays, allowing users to switch between desktop and traditional tablet interfaces. However, the feature is still under development, and an imminent release is unlikely, with speculation that it could debut alongside a potential Pixel Tablet 2.
AppWizard
August 5, 2024
Google is introducing a "compact" version of notifications in Android 15 Beta 4, which features an app's logo, a single line of text, and a "REPLY" button, with additional details accessible via a dropdown menu. This update aims to enhance user experience by minimizing disruption and allowing quick responses. Android 15 Beta 4 began rolling out to Pixel testers in mid-July and includes other enhancements focused on productivity, security, and privacy, such as the Private Spaces feature for safeguarding sensitive information. However, the compact notification feature may not be available at the official launch of Android 15, as beta testers currently cannot toggle between compact and traditional views. A full rollout is speculated to coincide with the Pixel 9 reveal in August.
AppWizard
July 23, 2024
Google is ending support for the Personal Safety app on older Android devices. The app will now only support Android 12 or later devices, and phones running an older version of the operating system will no longer receive updates or bug fixes.
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