Android 15 is finally released but only for Pixel smartphones

Google has completed Android 15 and released the source code to the Android Open Source Project (AOSP). While this is a significant step forward, it is irrelevant to the majority of end users because upgrades will not be distributed to phones until later. With the source code now available, custom ROM developers can work on fresh releases.

The Android Developers Blog said that Android 15 will be available for Pixel devices in the coming weeks. In the next months, it will also be available on certain handsets from Samsung, Honor, IQQQ, Lenovo, Motorola, Nothing, OnePlus, Oppo, Realme, Sharp, Sony, Tecno, Vivo, and Xiaomi. New high-end models are likely to receive the update first.

The following is a list of new features in Android 15, based on the notes provided in the announcement:

• Better text display for different languages, including Chinese, Japanese, and Korean
• Support for old Japanese writing styles, useful for displaying ancient documents
• Improved screen brightness control when mixing regular and high-quality (HDR) content
• Smarter audio volume adjustment based on your device and surroundings
• Better camera performance in low light conditions
• More precise control over camera flash strength
• Enhanced music creation apps with improved connectivity between virtual instruments
• Ability to save favorite app combinations for split-screen view
• Option to pin the taskbar on screen for easier app switching on large screens
• Improved support for Braille displays, making Android more accessible
• Easier tap-to-pay transactions with NFC-capable apps
• Support for small cover screens on foldable devices
• More customization options for Do Not Disturb mode
• App archiving feature to save space while keeping user data
• Changes to how apps run in the background to improve battery life and performance
• Option for a "Private Space" on your device to keep sensitive apps hidden
• Simpler sign-in process using passkeys (an alternative to passwords)
• Ability for apps to detect if they're being recorded
• Enhanced security measures to prevent unauthorized app launches

The Pixel 6 Series, including the Pixel 6a and upwards, will begin receiving the update in the coming weeks.