Android 15 is just around the corner and many of us are eager to know what new features it will incorporate. What we know so far is that Android 15 will bring a very useful feature called “Powered Off Finding” which will allow you to find your mobile phone even when it is turned off.
Find a turned off phone with Android 15
This feature relies on Bluetooth beacons stored in the device's Bluetooth controller. Even if the phone is turned off, it will continue to emit these Bluetooth beacons that can be detected by other nearby devices, in such a way as to facilitate their location.
For “Powered Off Finding” to work, Device manufacturers will have to update their devices to Android 15 and implement the necessary hardware support to keep the Bluetooth controller on when the rest of the components are off. Google will also have to enable this feature in its Google Play Services app.
Some existing Pixel devices, such as the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, are expected to be compatible with this function, while its implementation in other models could arrive with the launch of the next Pixel 9.
Other news of Android 15 according to the developer previews
The first developer preview of Android 15 is now available, although its installation is not recommended on devices for daily use due to possible instabilities and errors. This preview version focuses primarily on internal changes and technical improvements for developers.
Some of the notable new features include a new power efficiency mode that will dynamically adjust GPU and CPU frequencies based on application priority. They have also been introduced Heat detection improvements to avoid overheating issues.
Additionally, a new camera API has been implemented that promises to improve the performance of applications that use the camera in low light conditions. MIDI controls have also been optimized for compatible applications.
More changes in Android 15
As for visual changes, for now small details have been incorporated such as a haptic response when adjusting the brightness, a selector to activate or deactivate the keyboard vibration, and a feature called “notification cooling” which will gradually reduce sound and vibration when multiple notifications are received from the same app.
Meanwhile, the second developer preview has added additional features, such as archiving apps to free up storage space without losing data, options to configure the app drawer, and improving webcam quality. They have also been included Security improvements, such as fingerprint verification when connecting the device to a computer.
For now, these preview versions focus on technical aspects. For later The first beta of Android 15 is expected, scheduled for April, reveal more visual changes and features aimed at end users.