Android 15 Focuses On Preserving Privacy And Maintaining Security, In The Era Of Foldables

The Android operating system is a powerful, open-source platform developed by Google for mobile devices, including smartphones, tablets, and even wearables.

Since its launch in 2008, it has revolutionized the way we interact with technology, offering users a highly customizable interface and access to millions of apps through the Google Play Store. Its adaptability and flexibility make Android the most widely used mobile OS in the world, shaping the future of mobile innovation.

And in 2024, it's Android 15, and it packs quite a punch.

Most notably, the version of the Android focuses on preserving users' privacy, and maintaining security, and the beginning of its major support for foldable devices.

In a blog post, Google said that:

First of, is the updated Theft Detection Lock feature.

Google starts using AI to enhance this feature, in order to make it understand when to respond, and know how to respond under certain circumstances.

For example, the updated Theft Detection Lock feature can now detect when someone is snatching it from users' hand and then biking away. Users can also use Remote Lock to quickly lock their device from any device using their phone number and a simple security check.

Not only that Google is releasing this to Android 15, because the company is also making it available to most Android 10+ devices.

But unique to Android 15, the feature brings additional protections that prevent thieves from guessing users' passwords and accessing sensitive information.

Here, Google adds authentication requirements for settings targeted by thieves, like removing the SIM or turning off Find My Device. Android 15 can automatically lock down the device if it senses multiple failed attempts for apps and settings.

"These updates make it harder for thieves to reset and sell a stolen device, and deter more thefts before they happen," explained Google.

As for privacy, Android introduces a feature it calls 'Private Space', which acts like a digital safe.

With it, users can create a separate private space to organize sensitive apps, like their social, dating or banking apps.

When this Private Space is locked, apps that are put inside it remain invisible to others. The apps are also hidden from the apps list, recent apps view, notifications and even in the settings page.

And for additional privacy, users can even choose to hide the existence of Private Space from view on their phone.

Due to its goal of hiding what users' think are the most sensitive to them, access to Private Space requires additional layer of authentication, done through additional steps.

This way, Android 15 can ensure that the hidden apps are secure and away from prying eyes.

Another of saying this, apps in Private Space are virtually non-existing to those who don't know they're ever installed on the phone.

"The focus for Android 15 is on security features that help protect your personal information, like with health and finance, from theft and fraud. There are also improvements for large-screen devices, like foldables and tablets, to get more done," explained Google.

On top of the above, Google is also making some notable approach in supporting foldable devices.

In this case, new features in Android 15 are designed to make it easier for users to access the apps that help them get things done.

For example, users using foldables, and also tablets, can easily pin and unpin the taskbar on the screen. This allows you to customize the layout and keep their favorite apps within reach for quicker access and improved productivity.

Other features Android 15 introduce, include app pairing that provides a quick shortcut to make multitasking easier, improvements across camera, messaging and passwords.