As part of the Android Beta Program, Google has started rolling out the first beta build of Android 15. In February and March, developers were able to test their apps with two Developer Preview builds of the upcoming OS.
Beta 1 focuses on laying the foundation for several key improvements that will be revealed at Google I/O next month.
New Features:
An important change in Android 15 Beta 1 is the optimization of apps for larger displays. By default, new OS apps will render in edge-to-edge format, eliminating the need for developers to implement additional code.
As part of the update, TalkBack’s screen reader now supports Braille displays. Braille displays can be connected via USB or Bluetooth by users with visual impairments.
With Android 15 Beta 1, app archiving and unarchiving will be available at the OS level, helping to manage storage space. By archiving infrequently used apps, users can free up storage space while preserving app data for seamless reactivation.
The security of contact keys is improved with the introduction of an API for end-to-end encryption. Users can securely manage and verify each other’s contact information.
Including the Pixel Fold and the Pixel Tablet, Android 15 Beta 1 is compatible with Pixel devices ranging from Pixel 6 to Pixel 8 Pro. Later this year, the Pixel 5a will reach its end-of-life cycle and will not receive the update.
Beta 1 should already be available to those enrolled in the Android 15 Developer Preview program. Furthermore, users participating in the Android 14 QPR beta program can directly update to Android 15 Beta 1 without wiping their devices.
