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While Google's I/O 2024 conference didn't heavily feature Android 15, it's clear that it's well on its way. The second beta of Android 15 has just been released, and we're anticipating the final version to roll out later this year, probably around late summer or just prior to the Pixel 9's debut in October.
Android is making significant strides in AI, with Google introducing enhancements to Google Gemini, unveiling Project Astra for object recognition, real-time scam alerts, innovative content generation methods, and more. However, Android 15 and the broader ecosystem are set to receive a host of additional features.
Here's a rundown of the top 7 new Android features announced at Google I/O 2024.
Table of Contents
Private Space:
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Google has simplified the process of concealing sensitive files and images on your phone over the years. Now, they're taking it a step further with Private Space — a secure vault for sensitive apps that you'd prefer to keep hidden and protected from unwanted attention. While similar features have been offered on some Android phones, this is the first time Android has allowed you to hide and secure apps at a system level.
Private Space is more than just a hiding place for your apps. It acts more like a partition, securing your sensitive apps and their associated data behind an additional authentication layer. When these apps are secured, all related media and notifications are turned off and isolated.
Anti-Theft Lock:
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Phone theft is a modern-day nuisance. We store our entire lives on our phones, and having it stolen by a thief can put your personal and financial information in jeopardy. While keeping your phone locked provides some security, it's not much help if your phone is snatched while you're using it.
Theft Detection Lock employs Google's AI to identify when your phone has been abruptly taken from you and if someone tries to abscond with it. If such activity is detected, your phone immediately locks down, helping to keep your data secure until you can access the internet and wipe its contents.
Instant Scam Protection:
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Google's I/O keynote included the announcement of a new feature aimed at protecting users from scam phone calls. However, that's not the only scam prevention tool coming to Android. Google Play Protect will use your phone's on-device AI to identify apps that may be involved in fraudulent or phishing activities in real time.
The concept is that the threat detection tool can monitor and analyze how apps use sensitive permissions and interact with other apps. If anything seems amiss, Google Play Protect will disable the app, alert the affected users, and send the app to Google for review. As this is done on-device, Google can accomplish all this without collecting or transmitting your personal data.
Adding Passes to Google Wallet from a Photo:
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Google Wallet is an excellent tool for storing credit cards and other supported digital passes and loyalty card information. However, everything else has had to remain in your physical wallet — until now.
Android users in the U.S. will soon be able to create and store digital versions of physical passes in Google Wallet. This includes items like event tickets, library cards, auto insurance cards, gym memberships, and more. Simply take a photo in the Google Wallet app, and it will digitize the item for you, ready for when you need it most. This is certainly a more secure option than photographing everything and storing it in Google Photos.
We're left wondering if it will also be able to create backups of your Passport and other IDs. That would certainly be handy.
AR Integration in Google Maps:
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Google Maps is set to incorporate AR content, and we're not just referring to Live View directions. These novel AR experiences are intended to facilitate learning about locations in a more immersive manner. This is expected to lay the groundwork for the XR platform that Google is developing in collaboration with Samsung and Qualcomm, although the specifics of this platform remain somewhat ambiguous.
The inaugural Google Maps AR experiences are slated to debut in Singapore and Paris.
Entertainment Apps in Android Automotive:
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A selection of cars powered by Google's Android Automotive OS will soon be equipped with a variety of entertainment options. This includes access to Max and Peacock for streaming, as well as mobile games such as Angry Birds. Like other entertainment apps on Google for Cars, these will only function when the car is parked and stationary.
Google didn't provide a comprehensive list of the cars that would receive these apps, but did confirm that the Nissan Rouge, Renault R5, Acura ZDX, and Ford Explorer with Google built-in would be among them. Additionally, Rivian owners, and eventually other Android Automotive Cars, will receive support for Google Cast, allowing you to view content from your devices on the car's infotainment screen.
AI-Powered Recommendations in Google TV:
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Lastly, if you're constantly struggling to find something to watch, Google TV will utilize AI and Google Gemini to assist you in discovering worthwhile content amidst the vast sea of streaming options. Gemini will generate descriptions of shows and movies on your home screen, all of which have been selected based on your personal preferences, including your favorite genres and actors.
Furthermore, Google TV will fill in any sections or descriptions that haven't been translated. This will be particularly beneficial for those who enjoy foreign films or find it frustrating when English-language films don't provide subtitles for foreign-language scenes.
In conclusion, Android 15, unveiled at Google I/O, marks a significant leap forward for the operating system, particularly in the realms of AI integration, user privacy, and security. The top features announced include the innovative Private Space for app concealment, Theft Detection Lock for enhanced device security, and real-time fraud protection to safeguard against scams. These advancements, along with improvements in productivity, communication, and app performance, demonstrate Google’s commitment to evolving Android into a more intelligent, secure, and user-centric platform. As we anticipate the final release later this year, Android 15 is poised to redefine the mobile experience with its focus on AI-driven functionalities and robust security measures.