Google has released a first developer version of Android 15. The focus is on ensuring that hardware and software fit together better. Android 15 also provides additional security.

Android 15 has been available at least for developers since February 16th. Google releases a first early version of the mobile operating system. Developers can use it to test the compatibility of their applications. A beta version will follow soon, but this first developer preview also provides insight into the path Google wants to take with Android 15.

The first version focuses on two areas: improving app performance and protecting against malware.

Overheating

Google wants to integrate new APIs into Android that will better coordinate a device’s hardware and software. This should limit a serious drop in a phone’s performance as the processor reaches its limits. By default, smartphone SOCs come with a built-in security mechanism that allows applications to be throttled to prevent overheating. This leads to a visible loss of performance in the app.

The new ADPF APIs allow developers to run certain components of their applications in a low-power mode instead of demanding maximum performance. According to Google, this is intended to dramatically reduce the impact of background processes on your processor (and battery), giving your processor more room to “cool down” during intense workloads. Additionally, the release streamlines the process of matching a phone’s CPU and graphics processor frequencies to app requirements.

Cryptographic wall

Security has been a key focus for Google across several Android releases. In previous versions, the operating system sometimes had a reputation for being a playground for malware because, unlike Apple, there was little to no control over what applications you installed on your device. Google has been building an anti-malware wall in Android for several years and is adopting a security function from Linux for the new version. fs-verify. The Android kernel is still largely based on Linux codebases.

Hackers often target mobile users by attempting to damage a legitimate app installed on their devices with malicious code. The fs verification protocol allows app developers to “seal” sensitive parts of applications. When hackers attempt to tamper with these components, the seal is broken, making break-in attempts relatively easy to detect. The protocol is based on a data structure commonly used for cryptographic tasks.

From developer to beta

The developer version doesn’t yet contain too much information about feature updates in Android 15. However, we do see the ability to take a screenshot of just part of your screen. The next step is an initial beta version, which is expected to be rolled out to a limited number of devices in the spring. Google hopes to have a stable version ready by June, although Android 15 won’t be available for your device until fall at the earliest, depending on what make and model you own.