Android 15 Just Reached a Major Milestone

It’s beta software season, and the excitement is palpable as Google releases the third beta of Android 15 today, marking a significant step towards its final release. This update brings Android 15 to platform stability, meaning that the APIs are finalized and developers can now confidently test their apps with this near-final version. While there may not appear to be drastic changes since the last beta, there are still some intriguing updates worth noting.

Key Updates in Android 15 Beta 3

In a blog post announcing the new beta, Google highlights a notable change to the passkey UI. Now, using a passkey with biometric authentication is a more streamlined process. The Google Password Manager prompt to use a passkey has been combined with the biometric input screen, reducing the steps needed for authentication. Additionally, new fallback options are now accessible in the keyboard and text field drop-down menus, providing an easy way to navigate if you accidentally skip past the passkey prompt.

One tap is better than two. Image: Google

Biometric Enhancements

Even as Android 15 nears its final form, there are still new features to uncover. Android expert Mishaal Rahman discovered an enhancement in how the system handles biometric data. Android 15 might be able to identify when a biometric model isn’t performing optimally, automatically delete it, and then prompt the user to reenroll. While users could previously do this manually, this automatic feature could help those who might not realize that reenrolling their biometric data could improve performance. This is particularly beneficial as various factors can affect the accuracy and reliability of biometric models.

What’s Next for Android 15

With platform stability achieved, developers can now start fine-tuning their apps for the final release of Android 15. Google has published extensive documentation detailing all the new features and updates in Android 15. Developers and enthusiasts can also download the beta to explore the new functionalities firsthand. As Android 15 rounds third and heads for home, it's a great time for users to get a sense of the new features and improvements coming their way.

Embracing the Beta Season

For those who love living on the edge, downloading the Android 15 beta is a less risky proposition now that it’s nearing completion. And if you’re an iPhone user, you can join the beta fun with the iOS 18 developer beta, which was only announced last week. It truly is beta season, offering a taste of what’s to come in the world of mobile OS updates.

Conclusion

The third beta release of Android 15 represents a significant milestone, bringing the platform closer to its final release with stable APIs and key enhancements. The streamlined passkey UI, automatic biometric model management, and overall stability make this beta a critical update for developers and early adopters. Stay tuned to Kushal Bharat Tech News for more updates on Android 15 and other cutting-edge developments in the tech world.

Stay informed, stay ahead, and enjoy the ride through this exciting beta season!