Android 15: New features from anti-theft to sensitive apps, multitasking and more — everything you need to know

Android 15: Google-owned Android explained the new features of Android 15 in a blog post as it launched the tech giant’s Pixel devices this October.

Seang Chau, vice president and GM of the Android platform, said in an Oct. 15 post that the update includes new anti-theft features, private spaces for sensitive apps, multitasking capabilities, and more.

“These updates include security features to help protect sensitive health, financial, and personal information from theft and fraud. Additionally, improvements to larger-screen devices to help you work more efficiently, We’re also introducing updates to the entire app, including camera, messaging, and passkeys,” Chau said.

New features include:

New theft detection: According to the blog post, this new feature is aimed at deterring theft and recovering stolen devices faster. It added that the new “Theft Detection Lock 1” uses artificial intelligence (AI) to keep user data safe.

“If your phone senses that someone is trying to snatch your phone and try to run, ride a bike, or drive away, it will automatically lock your device. It will also lock your device remotely. With , you can instantly lock your device from any device using your phone number and a simple security check,” Chau said.

Notably, it added that the security update is now enabled on all Android 10 and newer devices.

Added authentication requirements: If your phone is still stolen, additional protections have been added to prevent thieves from guessing your passwords or accessing your sensitive information.

“Add authentication requirements to the settings of the thief, such as turning off SIM removal and device discovery, and lock down the device if it detects multiple failed attempts at an app or setting. The update makes it harder for thieves to reset and sell stolen devices, preventing further theft,” the blog post said.

Keep sensitive apps out of sight. Android 15 has a “Private Space” feature that acts like a digital safe for your phone. Create separate private spaces to organize your sensitive apps, such as social, dating, and banking apps. When your private space is locked, your app is effectively invisible to others and hidden from your app list, recent apps view, notifications, and settings.

To access your private spaces, there is an extra layer of authentication to keep your app safe and protected from prying eyes. You can also hide the existence of your private space from your phone’s view for even more privacy.

Customizable features for foldable tablets and tablets: New features in Android 15 let you customize your foldable tablet or tablet to “work more efficiently”

Among such features are the ability to pin or unpin the on-screen taskbar, and customize the layout to put your favorite apps within reach for faster access and increased productivity. There is a function to achieve this.

Another new feature is app pairing. This allows you to create quick shortcuts that allow for easy multitasking. For example, you can open Google Drive and Gmail at the same time and easily drag and drop files.

You can also save the combinations of apps you use most often, and they appear as a single app icon on your foldable tablet or tablet. Quickly get them in split screen with just a tap and access them faster.

Improved photos, messages, and more: Android 15 brings improvements across camera, messaging, and passwords. Other new features include:

• Low-light boost and in-app camera controls now work better in low-light conditions. Third-party apps also allow more advanced camera controls, including more precise flash control.
• Carrier messaging apps can use satellite connections to send and receive messages without a mobile or Wi-Fi connection.
• For apps that use passkeys for authentication, you can log in with one tap.