Android 15 features guide
The launch of Android 15 was another notable step forwards for the longstanding operating system, offering improved security, accessibility and functionality. In our comprehensive breakdown of Android 15, we’ll take you through its core features and biggest improvements.
If you’re looking to change your device, you can find a range of supported handsets in our contract and SIM-free collections, as well as further down this page.
When was Android 15 released?
Android 15 was released on 15th October 2024.
How to install Android 15
Your phone might come with Android 15 pre-installed. To check this, go to Settings > About phone > Software Information.
You can also update to Android 15 manually by going to Settings > Software Update.
Android 15 features
Private Space
One of the biggest updates in Android 15 is Private Space; a second layer of authentication for users to safely store their most sensitive apps.
Rather than downloading third-party apps to keep information secure, Android 15 allows you to lock your sensitive apps behind a password or PIN. Apps in Private Space are also hidden from the ‘Recents’ view and notifications, whether it’s a banking app, dating app, or text message.
Theft Detection Lock
Multiple safeguarding features are included in Android 15, helping to deter thieves and protect your device if it’s stolen.
The Theft Detection Lock feature cleverly uses AI to sense when someone has snatched your device and automatically locks it in response, restricting all access to potential thieves.
Devices will lock down following multiple failed attempts to log in, reducing the likelihood of someone accessing your data. With Android 15, Find My Device also requires PIN authentication to help you protect the locations of your friends and family.
Edge-to-Edge support
Apps on Android 15 can extend the full width of the display, ensuring users see content either side of the gesture recognition bar when it’s enabled. This feature is especially beneficial to tablet users, who can more effectively experience the full extent of the content they’re viewing.
App Archiving
App Archiving allows users to partially remove apps to free up storage and will automatically archive the ones you’re not using. This means you can store all the data for that app without consuming the extra space on your device.
Another benefit of App Archiving is that there’s no need to sign in again when reinstalling an app. The feature will save that crucial information and cut out the need to search for your login details.
Low Light Boost
The introduction of Low Light Boost in Android 15 is one that will excite the photographers out there. With Low Light Boost enabled, the camera will automatically adjust the exposure of the Preview stream in dark conditions, and even allow for QR codes to scan in low light.
App Pairing and pins
App Pairing makes it easier to access your favourite split-screen pairing, enabling you to save the combinations to the home screen so you can open them through a single icon.
Users can also customise which apps are pinned to the home screen taskbar, as well as pin the taskbar permanently, for added efficiency when working on a foldable or tablet device.
Partial screen recording
In addition to screen recording, users now have the ability to partially record their display; a helpful tool for eliminating any sensitive information from screen recordings such as tutorials or troubleshooting.
Widget previews
Widgets get some love in Android 15, too. The ‘Add’ button allows you to move a widget to your home screen without needing to manually drag it; a lifesaver if you like to customise the home panel with news and weather information.
Widget categories were also added, so you can separate them into different groups such as travel, entertainment or social media.
Updates to Health Connect
Android 15 comes with improvements to the Health Connect feature, granting you access to robust health and fitness data. Updates include the ability to backup and restore your data in regular intervals, training plans, and skin temperature tracking.
The structured workout plans incorporate more complex performance goals for tracking your health journey in detail. This includes calories burned, distance, duration, repetition, steps, heart rate, and speed.
If you’re curious about trying Android 15 for yourself on a new device, don’t worry about your old data; we’ll show you how to move it all across and start enjoying your handset with ease.
Android 15 FAQs
Which phones support Android 15?
Android 15 is supported by a wide range of phones, including:
• Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel 9 Pro Fold
• Pixel 8, 8a and 8 Pro
• Pixel 7, 7a and 7 Pro
• Pixel 6, 6a and 6 Pro
• Pixel Fold
• Galaxy S24, S24 FE, S24 Plus and S24 Ultra
• Galaxy S23, S23 FE, S23 Plus and S23 Ultra
• Galaxy S22, S22 Plus and S22 Ultra
• Galaxy S21, S21 FE, S21 Plus and S21 Ultra
• Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6
• Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Flip 5
• Galaxy Fold 4 and Flip 4
• Galaxy Fold 3 and Flip 3
If you’re unsure whether a phone supports Android 15, head to the manufacturer’s website and check the specifications.