Android 15 Developer Preview 2 introduces satellite connectivity support and additional features

Google has unveiled the second Developer Preview for Android 15, marking the final build targeted towards developers before the open beta in April. This update brings forth various alterations tailored to developers' needs, including the integration of satellite connectivity, improved support for cover screens, and the implementation of screen recorder detection.

What’s fresh in Android 15 Developer Preview 2 -

Satellite Connectivity Support -

Android 15 now officially incorporates satellite connectivity support, presenting UI elements to ensure a consistent user experience across satellite networks. This support is not limited to the US market, potentially paving the way for global satellite service providers.

Furthermore, applications can now discern when a device is linked to a satellite, enhancing awareness in situations where complete network services are inaccessible. Moreover, the update enables SMS and preloaded RCS applications to leverage satellite connectivity for messaging purposes, extending beyond just emergency scenarios.

Enhanced Cover Screen Support -

App developers now have the ability to specify a property to enable their apps to display on the small cover screens of supported flip devices. While these screens might not accommodate full-fledged apps, developers can choose to optimize their displays for these smaller screens.

Screen Recording Detection -

Android 15 empowers apps to identify when they are being screen-recorded. This feature proves particularly valuable for apps handling sensitive information, allowing developers to conceal content during screen recordings.

HDR headroom control -

Applications now have the capability to manage HDR headroom, enabling the balancing of SDR and HDR content. This functionality ensures that HDR content doesn't overshadow the brightness of SDR content. By empowering developers to define their desired HDR headroom, concerns regarding mixed content perception can be mitigated.

Loudness control -

Android 15 introduces support for the CTA-2075 loudness standard, ensuring consistent audio loudness across different types of content. This feature minimizes the need for users to adjust the volume frequently when transitioning between content.

Audio sharing -

A new "Audio sharing" section has been incorporated into Settings, simplifying the initiation and participation in Auracast sessions for users.

Built-in app archiving -

In Android 15, app archiving is now seamlessly integrated into the operating system. Users can conveniently manage archiving and restoration directly from the Settings app, streamlining the process.

Miscellaneous changes -

• Updated NFC APIs enhance NFC experiences, enabling devices to listen without necessarily responding to NFC readers.
• The PDFRenderer API is now a Project Mainline module, facilitating updates through Google Play System Updates.
• New APIs enable applications to monitor their startup and stop state, provide detailed app size information, and more.

Additionally, various developer-reported issues have been resolved to ensure a smoother experience, including:

• Rectified Google Play Store app crashes.
• Resolved issues with package manager crashes during APK installation.
• Addressed crashes associated with the Android System Intelligence app and work profile apps utilizing the device's fingerprint reader.

Availability -

The second Developer Preview is now accessible for testing on the listed Pixel devices, specifically intended for developers -

• Pixel 8 and 8 Pro
• Pixel 7, 7 Pro, and 7a
• Pixel 6, 6 Pro, and 6a
• Pixel Fold
• Pixel Tablet

Enrollment in the Android Beta program for Android 15 is not yet available, as the current enrollment is restricted to Android 14 QPR3 Betas. Google has stated that additional information regarding Android 15 Beta enrollment will be disclosed closer to the final release of the product.