Google continues to improve privacy and security features with its latest updates. In the upcoming Android 15 QPR1 release, the focus is on refining screen recording, building on the improvements introduced in Android 15. One of the key features rolled out in this version is enhanced control over screen sharing. Now, screen recording or casting can be limited to a single app rather than the entire screen. This provides better privacy, especially during screen-sharing sessions where sensitive content might otherwise be exposed.

New Features in Android 15 QPR1

Google is not stopping there. Android 15 QPR1 brings another layer of protection by automatically ending screen-sharing sessions when your phone is locked. This new update ensures that screencasting or recording stops once the device is locked, preventing unintended sharing of your screen in case of accidental locks. Previously, users had to manually stop screen sharing or recording, which sometimes led to privacy issues.

With Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2, the user experience becomes more streamlined. When you start screencasting or recording, the system will show you status bar notifications. These display not only the ongoing session but also how long it’s been active. Tapping on these notifications allows users to stop the recording or casting directly from the status bar, adding another layer of ease and security.

Differentiating System and Third-Party Screen Sharing

Another useful feature in Android 15 QPR1 is the clear distinction between system-initiated and third-party app-initiated screen sharing. When an app starts a screen-sharing session, the system reflects this with distinct icons and descriptions. This is especially handy for users who need to track which apps are accessing screen sharing.

For third-party apps, Android 15 QPR1 introduces automatic termination of screen sharing when the device is locked. This change means that any screen projection initiated by apps will immediately stop once you lock your phone, unlike in previous Android versions where sharing would continue unless stopped manually.

Developer Adjustments for App Compatibility

With these changes, Google advises developers to update their apps to work seamlessly with the new screen-sharing behavior. Developers need to implement a callback function within their apps to handle screen sharing interruptions, ensuring that apps release resources or update their user interfaces when the screen projection stops.

Future Impact of These Changes

Although these updates are significant, they are only available for Pixel devices running Android 15 QPR1 for now. The broader Android user base will have to wait until Android 16 rolls out next year to benefit from these features. Additionally, other upcoming features in Android 15 QPR1, such as a desktop windowing mode and lock screen widgets for tablets, further enhance Android’s functionality, making it clear that Google is continuously improving its operating system with user privacy and usability in mind.

In summary, Android 15 QPR1 takes another step towards a more secure and user-friendly screen recording experience. With the automatic termination of screen shares when locking the device, Android users can now enjoy a more seamless and private experience. This update is a prime example of how Google is focusing on giving users more control over their device’s privacy, making screen sharing safer and smarter.

In September, Google officially released Android 15 to the Android Open Source Project (AOSP), marking the next evolution of the Android operating system. Following this, major smartphone manufacturers began sharing their rollout plans for the latest update. Companies like Samsung and Nothing have already revealed their custom Android 15 skins, and Vivo has rolled out the update for a few of its devices. Meanwhile, Oppo is set to announce its Android 15 update on October 17.

Motorola, one of the leading American smartphone brands, has quietly shared a list of its smartphones eligible for the Android 15 update. While Motorola hasn’t made a public announcement, the official list of devices can now be found on their support page.

Motorola’s Android 15 Update: Eligible Devices

Although the list is somewhat hidden on Motorola’s support site, we’ve compiled the complete list of Motorola phones that will receive the Android 15 update, ensuring you don’t miss out on the essential information.

Motorola Razr Series:

• Motorola Razr (2023) / Razr 40
• Motorola Razr+ (2023) / Razr 40 Ultra
• Motorola Razr (2024) / Razr 50
• Motorola Razr+ (2024) / Razr 50 Ultra

Motorola Edge Series:

• Motorola Edge+ (2023)
• Motorola Edge (2024)
• Motorola Edge 40 Pro
• Motorola Edge 50
• Motorola Edge 50 Fusion
• Motorola Edge 50 Neo
• Motorola Edge 50 Pro
• Motorola Edge 50 Ultra

Moto G Series:

• Moto G Power 5G (2024)
• Moto G 5G (2024)
• Moto G Stylus 5G (2024)
• Moto G34 5G
• Moto G35
• Moto G45
• Moto G55
• Moto G75
• Moto G85

Other Motorola Devices:

• ThinkPhone by Motorola
• ThinkPhone (2025)

What About Older Motorola Models?

If you own older Motorola devices such as the Razr (2022), Edge (2023), Edge 40, or any models like the G54 or G84, these phones were notably absent from the official Android 15 eligibility list. While Motorola hasn’t provided information on these models yet, the company may update the list in the future. It’s also possible that these phones won’t receive the Android 15 update. We’ll keep you informed as more details emerge.

Motorola’s Update Strategy

Motorola has been criticized in the past for its slow software updates compared to competitors. However, the company appears to be making an effort to improve its process this time by providing the eligible device list earlier than usual. This could signal a more streamlined approach to delivering updates for Android 15, although only time will tell how quickly the update will actually roll out to devices.

For now, if you’re a Motorola user, keep an eye on the company’s official support page for the latest news on the Android 15 rollout. As more manufacturers begin rolling out Android 15, it will be interesting to see how Motorola stacks up in terms of speed and user experience.

Stay tuned for further updates on which devices will officially receive Android 15 and the potential timeline for the rollout.

Google is currently rolling out significant new features for Android theft protection and an updated charging screen for older Pixel Watch models, providing both Android phone users and smartwatch owners with advanced security and usability enhancements.

Android Theft Protection: Advanced Features for Device Security

Google is introducing a comprehensive set of theft protection features for Android devices to safeguard users’ data in the event of device theft. These features include Theft Detection, Offline Device Lock, and Remote Lock, all of which are now becoming widely available.

1. Accessing Theft Protection: You can access these new security tools through your phone’s Settings app. Navigate to Google > All services tab > Personal & device safety, or simply search for “theft” in the settings menu to find the relevant options quickly.
2. Theft Detection Lock: Theft Detection Lock activates when someone tries to steal your device while it’s in use. If your phone is grabbed and taken, the display turns off automatically, and the device will require authentication to regain access. This feature uses device sensors, Wi-Fi, and smart connections to detect theft and lock the device swiftly.
3. Offline Device Lock: If the thief tries to disable the internet connection to prevent tracking, Offline Device Lock steps in to secure your phone. This feature ensures your phone stays locked even without an internet connection, adding an extra layer of security in offline scenarios.
4. Remote Lock: If your phone is stolen, you can remotely lock it by visiting android.com/lock. This feature allows you to input your pre-verified phone number and security challenge to lock your device quickly. Google believes this method is faster than using the traditional Find My Device feature and the link to Remote Lock can also be found in the Find My Device settings. Once activated, your device’s screen can be locked twice a day through these methods.

To use these theft protection features, you must enable them in advance and set up Remote Lock by confirming your phone number. Disabling any of these features requires biometric authentication for added security.

Google’s Theft Protection is currently rolling out to Pixel and Samsung devices globally, with more Android 10 and newer devices expected to follow. However, the feature isn’t yet available on tablets. Google initially announced Theft Protection at their I/O 2024 event and began testing the feature in Brazil in June before expanding it worldwide.

Pixel Watch Charging Screen Update: A Visual Refresh for Older Models

Alongside theft protection for phones, Google is also updating the charging screen for older Pixel Watch models, providing users with a cleaner, more modern look. Initially introduced with the Pixel Watch 3, this refreshed screen design is now arriving on older Pixel Watch devices.

1. Visual Changes: The previous charging screen featured an elaborate green animation and a two-line clock. With the update, the animation has been removed, and a sleeker design with a yellow accent for the ring and other interface elements has been introduced. The time is now displayed in white.
2. New Features: On the Pixel Watch 3, the charging screen includes a time-to-full estimate, displayed on the right side of the screen. When the screen is activated, users will notice a brief loading animation while the estimate is calculated. However, on older Pixel Watch models, this time-to-full estimate is not yet functional, though it may be enabled in a future update.
3. Day/Date and Timer Display: Users will see the day and date displayed on the charging screen, with the information flipped compared to previous versions. If a timer is set, it will appear on the left; otherwise, the day/date will be shown on the left, and the month will be displayed on the right.

This new charging screen design is available on Pixel Watches running Wear OS 5. If you are not seeing the updated interface yet, ensure that your apps are up to date, and try restarting your watch.

In summary, Google is pushing forward with two key updates: enhanced theft protection features for Android users and a refreshed charging interface for older Pixel Watch devices. These features are designed to enhance security and usability, providing more control and ease of use across devices. Android users can feel more secure knowing their devices are protected, while Pixel Watch owners can enjoy a cleaner, more intuitive charging display.