Google I/O 2024: Android 15 Beta to be launched soon, here's everything you need to know

As Google’s annual developer conference, Google I/O, kicked off, the tech giant unveiled a plethora of updates centred around its Gemini AI, showcasing the innovation brewing within its DeepMind Labs. Amidst the excitement surrounding Gemini, which included the introduction of features like Google Search integration, Gemini 1.5 Pro, and the Gemini app, Google opted to keep the lid on the unveiling of Android 15 for a later occasion. Instead, the keynote focused predominantly on the seamless integration of AI across various Google platforms.

While enthusiasts awaited news on Android 15, Google chose to emphasize the advancements in AI, shedding light on updates to the Gemini personal assistant app and the promising trajectory of Gemini Nano with its expanding on-device capabilities. Although Android was not the star of the show, Google had already embarked on the Android 15 journey with the Developer Preview program in February, followed by the release of the first beta in March. However, the full extent of Android 15’s features will only be revealed with its official launch, scheduled for tomorrow.

More from Tech

Is Sam Altman gearing up to take on Musk’s Neuralink? Report says... Do Kwon, the man behind $40 bn cryptocrash, pleads guilty to fraud

In the meantime, here’s a glimpse of what to expect from Android 15, based on the beta and reports:

1. Edge-to-edge app experience: Android 15 bids farewell to the bottom black bar in apps, maximizing screen real estate for an enhanced viewing experience. App developers will need to update their apps to leverage this feature fully.

2. Smoother NFC transactions: The new OS enhances Near Field Communication (NFC) handling, ensuring smoother and more reliable transactions for users.

3. Precise screen sharing: Android 15 empowers users to share specific app windows rather than the entire screen, a functionality previously exclusive to Pixel devices.

Impact Shorts

View All

Best phones under Rs 30,000 (Aug 2025): Realme GT 6, Motorola Edge 60 Pro to OnePlus Nord 4 5G

Best phones under Rs 25,000 (Aug 2025): Poco F6 5G, Realme P3 Ultra 5G to iQOO Z10 5G

4. Expanded connectivity: Google is bolstering support for satellite networks, allowing apps to utilize satellite connections in regions with limited traditional network coverage.

5. App archiving: Android 15 introduces an app archiving feature that automatically stores unused apps, thereby freeing up valuable storage space on devices.

6. Improved camera controls: Android 15 grants users greater control over camera settings, such as low-light performance and flash intensity, facilitating enhanced photo customization.

7. Privacy protection: Android 15 introduces the “Sensitive Notifications” feature, preventing unauthorized apps from accessing sensitive information contained within notifications.

8. Simplified Bluetooth management: Android 15 streamlines the process of connecting and disconnecting Bluetooth devices through a new popup dialogue, enhancing user experience.

9. High-quality webcams (Pixel exclusive): Pixel device users will enjoy a dedicated high-quality webcam mode in Android 15, promising improved video conferencing capabilities.

10. Braille display accessibility: Android 15 offers native support for Braille displays via the HID standard, both wired and wireless, catering to visually impaired users and enhancing accessibility.

With these anticipated features, Android 15 aims to deliver a seamless and user-centric experience, further cementing its position as a leading mobile operating system in the tech landscape.