Android SDK

Google announced plans for more frequent Android SDK releases starting in 2025, with a significant update expected in Q2, likely related to Android 16, prompting earlier annual compatibility testing for developers. Enhancements to Gemini in Android Studio include features for modifying code, generating commit messages, and creating documentation, along with auto-generating composable previews. In the Play Store, Google is introducing a full-screen mode for portrait videos, a more prominent install button, and personalized query recommendations, initially supporting English. On-device biometric authentication for app purchases has been integrated, allowing fingerprint or facial recognition for transactions. Google has doubled purchase numbers in 2024 and increased conversion rates by nearly 3% by encouraging users to set up payment methods, now including PayPal and Cash App. The Play Integrity API is being enhanced to help developers protect their applications against security threats, with the "app access risk" feature now available to detect privacy-compromising apps.