Subtle enhancements for a more intuitive Android
Think of Android 15 as Android 14.5. It includes a handful of new features and improvements that make for a smoother and more intuitive phone and tablet experience, though its privacy, security, and storage tools won’t radically alter how you use your Google-powered device. Rather, it builds and enhances the groundwork laid down by Android 14 and Android 13, delivering a more polished mobile operating system than a transformative one. Likewise, minor bugs and reports of phones bricking when using the new Private Space feature complicate an otherwise fine update. Unlike iOS 18, Android 15 isn’t an OS that beckons you to immediately download it, especially when its intriguing Identity Check security feature isn’t slated for a release until later this year.How to Download Android 15
At launch, Android 15 is limited to select Google Pixel devices. These include the Pixel 6, 7, 8, and 9; the Pixel Fold; and the Pixel Tablet. Support for other phones is expected later this year.
If you own a compatible Android phone, check its OS update eligibility by heading to Settings > System > System Update. We installed Android 15 on a Pixel 6 Pro, which took approximately 20 minutes. Elude Prying Eyes With Private Space
Private Space is the most prominent new feature of Android 15. It lets you create a separate, secure drawer for housing Android apps. It is essentially a digital safe that others can’t access. To use it, you must first navigate to the app drawer and scroll down. A new Private pill sits at the bottom, which can only be accessed with a fingerprint ID or PIN. With Private Space, you can stow away apps (banking, dating, etc.) to keep them away from prying eyes. For extra security, you can lock Private Space with a different PIN than what you set for the lock screen.
You can link a Private Space to a second Google account for even more security, effectively creating a second profile. Apps moved to Private Space don’t appear in your app list, notifications, recently viewed apps section, or settings.
Although I didn’t experience Android 15 performance issues using Private Space, online reports state that the new feature may brick Pixel 6 phones. If you own a Pixel 6, consider waiting for more details before downloading Android 15. Enhanced Theft Protection
Google is no stranger to account and device protection, but this is especially true with Android 15’s Theft Detection.
