After two developer previews, the initial public release of Android 15 Beta is now available. While it doesn’t introduce any major changes, it does add a few new features compared to Android 15 DP2. For those unfamiliar, Google typically releases two developer previews and around four major betas before the next Android version moves to platform stability and is eventually released. Here’s a comprehensive list of everything new in the Beta 1 release of Android 15.
NFC Stack
In Android 15 Beta 1, the existing Android NFC stacks are replaced with a separate module, which will be part of Project Mainline. For those unfamiliar, Project Mainline is where Google converts certain Android features into modules that can be updated through Google Play System updates. These modules ensure that key components of Android remain up-to-date even when devices have reached their update limit.
NFC functionality is currently not working due to an error that occurred when Google pushed this change. If you frequently use Google Wallet for NFC payments, we recommend not installing this update.
New Predictive Back Gesture Animations
Android’s predictive back gestures have been highly anticipated. Currently located in Developer options, these features appear to be receiving new animations in the latest Android 15 Beta.
Allow WEP Networks
Android 15 Beta 1 introduces a “Allow WEP networks” toggle for WEP networks, which are outdated and pose privacy concerns. The option includes a warning in the description stating, “WEP is an older security protocol that’s less secure.“
App Archiving
If you’ve been keeping up with Android news, you might be aware that App Archiving was introduced in Android 15 DP2. However, Google has chosen to emphasize its arrival in the latest Beta. Here’s how it works.
Support for Braille Displays
The latest update to TalkBack Accessibility includes support for Braille displays. All Braille displays that use Human Interface Devices (HID) over USB and Bluetooth connections can now be used with TalkBack.
Default Wallet app
A new “Default app” option for the Wallet app has been added in settings. This allows users to set their preferred default Wallet app. By default, this option is set to Google Wallet on Pixels.
Cellular Network Security Options
Two new toggles have been added to the More privacy settings. The first toggle enables Android to send security notifications to alert you if your cellular network is insecure or if your phone’s IMEI is being recorded. Require encryption toggle is the second option
What are your views on the latest Android 15 Beta? Do you think Google should have added more features in the update? Let us know in the comments below.
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