Looks poised to introduce multiple features that enable users to execute basic tasks and view information quickly. These additions encompass a fresh screensaver, empowering users to manage Home devices, the revival of lock screen widgets tailored for tablets, and the option to switch the default wallet app for Google Wallet.
All three novel features were unearthed in the , which was unveiled on April 11, 2024, and is downloadable for Pixel devices. Nonetheless, it is advisable to await the full release for optimal stability.
The comprehensive launch of Android 15 is anticipated around Q3 of 2024, with the unveiling of some of Android 15’s latest features at , scheduled for May 14.
As part of the Android 15 update, widgets are expected to make a comeback to the lock screens of Android tablets.
Widgets provide swift access to essential app details without the need to open the respective apps, enabling users to glance at notes, emails, calendars, and more directly from the home screen of Android devices.
Previously, lock screen widgets were accessible on both phones and tablets in 2012 under Android 4.2 Jelly Bean but were subsequently removed in Android 5.0 Lollipop.
Presently, when your device is locked, you can only access three apps: Google Calendar, Google Clock, and the Google App. However, the potential update signifies that unlocking your tablet to reach convenient widgets like Music, photos, contacts, and others may no longer be necessary, thereby enhancing the customization options for your device.
Initially presumed to be exclusive to the , the reappearance of widgets was unveiled through an examination of the code for the Android 15 Beta. A new “communal space” has been identified, enabling users to incorporate widgets from selected apps. This space can be accessed by swiping inward from the right side of the lock screen.
Further details allude to a “glanceable hub” where the widgets will reside. Although they are not directly placed on the lock screen, they are situated on a page accessible from the lock screen, offering a quicker and more convenient alternative to opening the apps individually.
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2. Control your smart home through Screensaver
The forthcoming Android 15 update might introduce a new screensaver named ‘Home Controls,’ granting users the ability to manage their home controls directly from the screensaver.
This update will incorporate Home controls into the existing list, enabling users to oversee their compatible Google Home devices while their phone or tablet is on charge.
This feature encompasses Google Nest devices like cameras, thermostats, and doorbells. Once selected and when the screensaver is active, Home Controls will exhibit your preferred controls for the enabled devices.
However, it appears that the Home Controls screensaver exclusively supports Google Home devices and not other device controls, implying that other smart home apps would need to develop their dedicated screensavers.
Screensavers have been a component of Android phones since Android 9, enabling users to showcase photos, colors, or a simple clock while charging. The addition of Home controls could prove beneficial, and although it will be accessible on both Android phones and tablets, it is likely to be more utilized on tablets.
Currently, to access the Google Home settings, one would typically need to launch the Google Home app, activate it via the Google Assistant, utilize a lock screen shortcut, or select the quick setting tile.
While these methods are not overly complex, the inclusion of a screensaver could serve as a convenient time-saving feature for swift access to smart home settings when using an idle docked tablet.
3. Setting Google Wallet as the default wallet app
Lastly, Android 15 may introduce the functionality to designate your preferred default wallet app for transactions and storing wallet details.
Digital wallets enable users to store credit cards, loyalty cards, train tickets, boarding passes, and event tickets conveniently.
Android is renowned for enabling users to set preferred apps as defaults for various phone functions such as web browsing, file management, media playback, and calendars. However, NFC payments currently necessitate the use of the Google Wallet app exclusively.
This scenario could undergo a transformation with the Android 15 update, allowing users to select from a range of apps to utilize their phone’s NFC feature for payments and wallet information storage. This stands in contrast to users who are presently restricted to using only Apple Wallet on their devices for such transactions.
Nevertheless, reports suggest that currently, only the AMEX app can be selected, and its functionality is not operational yet. Hopefully, additional wallet apps and banks will develop compatible digital wallet apps in the future, providing Android users with more payment options and wallet information storage choices.
Android 15 considerations
As with all leaked beta features, it is crucial to bear in mind that some or all of the potential additions to Android 15 mentioned above are not guaranteed. Interpretations of code inspections can vary, and these features might be introduced in a subsequent update like Android 16 or 17, or they could be entirely abandoned.
For those daring enough to experiment with the Android 15 Beta, it is essential to remember that being an early version of the OS, it may exhibit instability and could lead to glitches and potential crashes. Therefore, it is advisable to back up your device beforehand or await the official release.