Google continues to develop its mobile operating system with the introduction of Android 15 Developer Preview 2. With this update, developers are focused on improving the experience of interacting with new technologies, expanding the ability to personalize devices and improving satellite communications functions.
The sophisticated satellite communications feature is now integrated into the Android system functionality: SMS, MMS and RCS can now send messages via satellite, expanding communication capabilities beyond conventional networks. Adding an API for external clamshell screens allows programs to adapt the display to the unique features of the form factor of such devices.
Built-in app archiving features give users the tools to free up up to 60% of disk space while maintaining all personal data. Google claims that this will optimize the use of internal memory without losing important information.
A step towards audiophiles comes in the form of the Audio Stream section in Settings, which enables the Auracast feature, which can stream audio content to multiple Bluetooth devices simultaneously. This feature is currently under implementation.
Google has also focused on the ease of switching between the external and main screens on foldable smartphones, providing a flexible mechanism for working with applications. Users will have access to a gesture that launches an application activated on the main screen on the external display.
The functionality of USB modes has been improved: in particular, when the device is connected as a webcam, it becomes possible to work in high-quality mode. The changes also affected security: the system now requests user verification when changing USB modes, which prevents unauthorized access.
A number of innovations have been announced for developers, including updates to the API and tools for creating and testing applications. Android 15 DP2 installation images are available on the official Android Developers portal and can be installed on the latest Pixel smartphones, starting with the Pixel 6/6 Pro.