Google releases first beta version of Android 15: Eligible devices, features, and more

Google Android 15

After announcing two Developer Preview Android 15 updates in the last two months, Google has now rolled out the Android 15 Beta 1 update. It is available to download on eligible Google Pixel smartphones for users and developers who want to try new Android 15 features from Google.

Android 15 which has been codenamed “Vanilla Ice Cream” is expected to be released later this year, and will be officially unveiled at Google’s I/O annual developer conference event in May 2024.

Android 15 Beta 1 update: All the details

The Android 15 Beta 1 is currently available for all Pixel devices eligible for Android 15. Smartphones launched from Pixel 6 onwards including Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, Pixel 8, and Pixel 8 Pro can download the update and install it on their smartphones.

The new Android 15 Beta 1 update has brought several improvements and new features that aim to enhance the user experience. The forthcoming update comes with some practical improvements, like built-in support for app archiving, improved Braille support, cellular network security controls, and more.

Although the aforementioned changes are prominently highlighted, other developments are being worked on behind the scenes as well. Many of these developments are focused on providing new widgets and wallpapers. Especially for Pixel phones, Google has also provided new Pixel weather widgets.

Meanwhile, a new Send device name toggle is also visible under the Privacy menu found in each Wi-F address saved on your device. For curved display smartphones, Google has also introduced edge-to-edge app support.

With Android 15, Google is also making sure that foreground app activities are minimised, so that remote access to your device can be eliminated. With secure background activity, you can also track such activities.

Since the Android 15 Beta update 1 is not a stable update, this new update from Google is bound to have some bugs and network issues. Therefore, we don’t recommend users to install this update on your daily driver. However, if you are keen to try new features before everyone else, you can try your hand at the beta version.

Also read:Google launches Find My Device feature to locate misplaced phones, keys and more