Android 15 Now Available on AOSP

The latest version of Android’s mobile operating system, Android 15, has officially been released and can now be accessed via the Android Open Source Project (AOSP). Supported Pixel devices will gradually receive the update over the next few weeks. Other manufacturers, including Samsung, Xiaomi, Motorola, OnePlus, and others, are also expected to roll out Android 15 to select devices in the coming months.

Launch to AOSP: An Open Source Foundation

With the release of Android 15 to AOSP, Google continues its dedication to open-source principles, allowing developers to contribute to the platform. This fosters an innovative and collaborative environment where developers can build and enhance Android’s features. Android Studio and Jetpack Compose remain central tools for creating apps that are compatible across the wide variety of Android devices. The open-source availability also allows developers deeper insights into how Android functions, helping improve app performance and integration.

New Features in Android 15 for Developers

The update to Android 15 brings several new APIs and functionalities aimed at enhancing productivity and development options:

ApplicationStartInfo API: Provides detailed data on app startup times, including reasons for delays and performance metrics.
Profiling Class Updates: The ProfilingManager API has been upgraded to improve the telemetry collection process, offering more detailed insights like system traces and heap profiles.
StorageStats API: Developers now have more detailed views of how their apps use storage, with insights into file metadata and usage breakdowns.
PdfRenderer Enhancements: Improvements to PDF handling, such as better rendering for password-protected files and added support for annotations and form edits.
OpenJDK and SQLite APIs: New updates in OpenJDK bring more mathematical functions, and SQLite gains improved database operations.
Canvas Drawing Updates: Expanded tools for 3D rendering and complex shape creation within applications.

Media and Camera Improvements

Android 15 introduces new enhancements aimed at refining media and camera performance:

HDR and SDR Control: Allows developers to better manage HDR content and avoid issues with SDR material appearing washed out.
Audio Enhancements: A new system adjusts audio levels based on metadata, ensuring optimal loudness across different devices.
Low-Light Improvements: Camera functionality now includes better image previews and QR code scanning in dim lighting.
Advanced Flash Controls: Users can now fine-tune flash intensity for more precise photography.
Universal MIDI Support: Expands Android’s MIDI capabilities, enabling better support for virtual instruments and musical compositions.

Enhanced User Experience Features

Android 15 is packed with new features to improve user experiences, particularly in multitasking and accessibility:

Split-Screen App Pairing: Users can now save their favorite app pairings for split-screen mode, enhancing multitasking efficiency.
Edge-to-Edge Display: Apps targeting SDK 35 will now extend content edge-to-edge, utilizing transparent system bars for a cleaner look.
Braille Display Compatibility: The TalkBack screen reader has been updated to support a broader range of Braille displays, enhancing accessibility.
NFC and App Presentation: New improvements in NFC transaction capabilities and better app presentations on small secondary screens, such as cover displays on foldable devices.

Privacy and Security Updates

Security and privacy have been key areas of focus in Android 15, with several updates aimed at protecting user data:

Private Space: A new feature allows users to create a separate, secure space for sensitive apps, with additional layers of authentication required.
Passkey Sign-In: This update introduces support for passkeys, enabling users to sign in with a single tap and autofill saved credentials securely.
Activity Recording Detection: Apps can now identify when they are being recorded, offering more control over sensitive content.
PendingIntent Restrictions: Android 15 introduces tighter restrictions on background activity launches, enhancing security and reducing potential abuse.

Preparing for the Transition to Android 15

For developers, transitioning to Android 15 means ensuring compatibility with the updated SDKs, tools, and libraries. The Android SDK Upgrade Assistant in Android Studio will help streamline the update process. Testing should focus on key new features, including the 16 KB page size support and the new private space functionality.

Early Access and Beta Programs

Pixel devices that support Android 15 will receive over-the-air updates in the coming weeks. Additionally, users can opt into the Android 15 QPR beta program to test new features ahead of general release. Developers and enthusiasts can stay updated through the ongoing Spotlight Week series, which provides detailed information on all of Android 15’s major features. For further insights, visit the official Android blog and other Google channels.