The newest version of Android, the Android 15 update, is here. It is the fifteenth major release and the 22nd version of the Android operating system. During development, the update was internally codenamed “Vanilla Ice Cream.”
The first developer preview for Android 15 was released in February 2024, and the source code was released on September 3rd, 2024. The update has only recently been officially released for phones, with Google Pixel devices receiving it on October 15, 2024.
Samsung Galaxy devices haven’t received the Android 15 update yet, but it will be released in early 2025 alongside a massive One UI update. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the update.
Android 15 adds a range of new features, security tools, and optimisation. Currently, the OS update is only available for the sixth generation of Pixel devices and onwards.
The new major update has received positive reviews. They praise the improved performance, added privacy functions, theft protection, and enhanced graphical flourishes.
The New Features of The Latest Android Update
Android 15 has started rolling out to Pixel devices, bringing with it new features. These include new security measures, improvements for large-screen devices, and updates for core systems, like the camera and messaging, as well as AI updates.
Security updates
Android 15 updates the Theft Detection Lock feature, making it AI-powered. Using artificial intelligence, the feature will now be able to sense when someone has snatched your phone and quickly lock your device to protect your data.
It also provides additional protection to prevent thieves from guessing your password and accessing sensitive information. For example, if the phone detects a thief trying to access settings, like removing your SIM or turning off Find My Device, more authentication will be required.
Private space
Android 15 introduces a new feature called private space. It essentially acts as a digital safe on your phone, where you can move sensitive apps, such as social, dating, or banking apps, to keep them out of sight if someone were to borrow your phone.
When private space is locked, the apps are virtually invisible. They won’t show up in your apps list or recently used. They can only be seen by opening the private space using authentication.
Foldable smartphones and tablets
For large-screen devices, like the Pixel tablet and Pixel 9 Pro Fold, the Android 15 update brings in new features to increase productivity. Now, you can easily pin and unpin your taskbar on the screen, allowing for apps to be easier and quicker to access.
There is now the option to pair apps, which effectively acts as a shortcut to open the two apps together and automatically arrange them in a split-screen view. You can save your most frequently used app combinations as a single app icon on your foldable or tablet.
Other updates
There have also been updates to log-in security, passwords, cameras, and messaging. Low Light Boost and in-app camera controls have been updated to work better in low-light conditions.
The Android 15 update has also added more functionality to third-party camera apps. This will allow for more settings, like precise flash control. Carrier messaging apps can now use satellite connectivity to send and receive messages without a mobile or Wi-Fi connection.
Beyond the Android 15 update, Google has also been providing separate updates to its Pixel products, especially for its AI assistant. Gemini Live is now widely available for all Pixel users free of charge.
How To Download and Install The Latest Android Update
You can only download the new Android update on a compatible phone. If your phone is supported, go to Settings > System > Software Updates > System Updates. If Android 15 is available for your device, it should prompt you to update. Sometimes, you may need to click the Check for update button.
After navigating through the settings menu and checking if the update is available, click Download and Install. It shouldn’t take long for your phone to download the update. Once it’s downloaded, your phone will restart and then boot back up.
Reminder: Make sure that you have enough storage space to update from Android 14. If there isn’t enough space, you will see a notification like “Not enough space available”, indicating you need to remove some apps or files.
Below is a list of devices that currently support Android 15.
- Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6A
- Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7A
- Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8A
- Pixel Fold
- Pixel Tablet
- Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold
What To Do If Your Phone Isn’t Receiving The Latest Android Update
Currently, the only phones available for update to Android 15 are Google’s Pixel line from the sixth generation onward. If your phone is supported but isn’t receiving the option to update, we recommend getting in touch with Google customer support.
Versions of Android 15 are planned to be released for select devices from other major Android manufacturers, like Samsung, Lenovo, Motorola, OPPO, Sony, Xiaomi, and OnePlus. Estimations vary depending on the manufacturer, with most industry experts expecting early 2025.
Most smartphone manufacturers support their devices with 4-7 years of major software updates. So, most mid-to-high-end Android phones released in the past five years should eventually receive the Android 15 OS update.
If you’re not sure if your phone is still receiving support or eligible for future operating system updates, we recommend checking in with your manufacturer. There are also plenty of free tools online to check whether your phone is still being officially supported.
If your phone isn’t going to be receiving the latest Android update, it might be a sign that you need to upgrade. If your phone isn’t eligible for Android 15, that means apps and games will stop being optimised for it long-term, and it won’t receive future security patches.
Buy The Latest Android Phones at OzMobiles
If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to experience the newest technology, buying refurbished is a great way to save money when shopping for the latest Android phone. Here at OzMobiles, we stock a wide range of refurbished Android phones, including the Samsung Galaxy series.
As part of our selection, we also stock a range of refurbished Google products, including the Pixel 9 series and foldable smartphones. These phones can be updated to Android 15.
All the devices we sell undergo an extensive refurbishment process in our Melbourne headquarters. During this, a qualified technician tests the phone to ensure all components are fully functional and running optimally using industry-standard software. If there are any issues, they are repaired using genuine parts.
At OzMobiles, we also stand behind all our products by offering a free 12-month warranty and a 30-day risk-free return period. That way, you can shop confidently, and our customer support team will only be a message away if you have concerns or a change of heart.
If you have any questions about our range of refurbished Android devices or our refurbishment process, contact us today. The OzMobiles team would be happy to answer any questions and connect you with the right device.
