Android 15’s Most Exciting New Features Revealed

Updates rolling out today introduce expressive video captions, enhanced integration for Pixel 9 screenshots, and new Spotify features for Gemini, setting the stage for Android 15’s future.

Android 15’s first major update is packed with enhancements for both Android phones and Pixel devices. For Android users, these updates bring richer video captions, an AI-powered improvement to the Lookout app, and new capabilities for the Gemini Assistant. Pixel 9 owners will enjoy even deeper customization and utility with exclusive features tailored to their devices.

Enhanced Captions for Videos

A standout addition in this update is the introduction of Expressive Captions. Google’s improved captioning system now includes non-verbal cues like [gasp] and [applause] to create a more immersive experience. This functionality is available across apps with video captions, such as social media platforms and video messaging apps.

AI-Powered Accessibility with Lookout

Google continues to prioritize accessibility with an upgrade to the Lookout app. By integrating the Gemini 1.5 model into its Image Q&A tool, Lookout now provides more detailed and accurate descriptions for photos. This improvement significantly enhances the app’s usability for individuals with low vision or blindness, reflecting Google’s ongoing efforts to incorporate AI advancements into accessibility tools.

Gemini Assistant Gets Smarter

Android 15’s update also enhances Gemini Assistant with new features. The Spotify extension now allows users to play music directly through Gemini, addressing a major limitation of its initial launch. Gemini also gains access to the Utilities extension, empowering it to perform actions like making calls, sending messages, and adjusting settings. These updates bring Gemini closer to matching the capabilities of Google’s traditional Assistant.

Additional Android Updates

Beyond these core updates, Android 15 introduces several quality-of-life features:

• Emoji Kitchen in Gboard: Create custom stickers directly within Gboard.
• QR Code Sharing: Share photos seamlessly with Quick Share.
• Improved Scanning in Google Drive: Enhanced scanning modes simplify document management for receipts and more.

  

Exclusive Pixel 9 Features

Pixel 9 users benefit from even more tailored features in this update. For instance, the call screening tool now offers contextual reply suggestions, letting users respond to callers through pre-set prompts without answering. Additionally, the Pixel Screenshots app gains new integrations:

• Save searches initiated through Circle directly within the Screenshots app.
• Enable suggested Gboard search phrases based on saved screenshots.
• Securely store ticket or card information from Google Wallet screenshots.

Security Enhancements

This update also introduces Identity Check for older Pixel models. This feature adds an extra layer of security by requiring authentication if sensitive settings are accessed in unfamiliar locations.

The Android 15 update is rolling out today to eligible devices, including Pixel 6 and newer phones. With these enhancements, Android 15 reaffirms Google’s commitment to accessibility, security, and user-friendly innovations.