Google is releasing Android 15 today for Pixel devices, along with new features in the October Pixel drop. This update includes enhancements for low-light photography on Instagram and support for underwater photography and video.
Android 15 updates
One of the key features of Android 15 is the private space functionality, allowing users to hide and lock apps with an additional PIN or biometric lock similar to iOS 18.
Moreover, Android 15 introduces theft protection measures, such as requiring extra authentication if someone tries to remove the SIM card or disable Find My Device. It also includes a security feature that locks the device after multiple unsuccessful attempts to change sensitive settings.
Android 15 also introduces a taskbar feature for pinning apps and app pairs to enable split-screen functionality on foldable devices and tablets. It includes support for single-tap login for saved passkeys and satellite messaging in the absence of network or Wi-Fi.
October Pixel Drop
The October Pixel drop enhances low-light photography on Instagram for all Pixel devices starting from Pixel 6 (excluding Pixel A series).
Google has introduced an Audio Magic Eraser feature for Pixel 8 series devices, allowing users to adjust the volume levels of specific sounds. This Pixel drop also enables users to control audio levels of different sources and individuals in videos.
Google is implementing new theft protection measures for Pixel 6 and newer devices, automatically locking the phone if it detects someone grabbing it forcefully. Additionally, theft detection locks are being extended to all devices running Android 10 and above.
For Pixel devices from Pixel 6 onwards, the October Pixel Drop introduces widget recommendations, an updated Pixel weather app, pollen data tracking in select countries, call screening enhancements, Gemini Live support, and easy access to the Astrophotography mode.
Pixel 9 series owners can now use a waterproof case to capture underwater photos and videos with improved color representation. The Pixel 9 also gains support for Gemini Extension for Pixel screenshots.
Ecosystem updates
Google is enabling the ability to interact with Gemini without needing to take out your phone for users of Pixel Buds Pro 2, Pixel Buds Pro, Pixel Buds A-Series, and original Pixel Buds.
Additional ecosystem updates include screensavers with various controls, seamless media transfer to Pixel tablets, emoji email reactions, an updated contact app, and easier favorite contact access for all Pixel watches.
