Android
Android 15: Enhanced display settings, improved desktop mode, and upgraded do not disturb features

Top 3 Key Points:
- External Display Settings: Android 15 introduces new settings to control display resolution and rotation for connected external screens.
- Desktop Mode Progress: The updated desktop mode in Android 15 takes a step closer to release, promising a more refined experience.
- Enhanced Do Not Disturb: Android 15 revamps the Do Not Disturb mode with expanded customization options through a new “Priority Mode.”
Google is steadily preparing for the official launch of Android 15, and the first beta version of its quarterly platform release (QPR1 Beta 1) is now available for supported Google Pixel phones. Although this beta doesn’t introduce many visible changes, there are significant updates hidden within the system, particularly around display management, desktop mode, and the Do Not Disturb feature.
1. External Display Management: In this new update, Android 15 adds a dedicated “External Display” settings page under the “Connected devices” menu. This page allows users to manage the resolution and rotation of an external display connected to their phone. For instance, users can adjust these settings without disconnecting the display, making it more convenient to mirror or extend their phone’s screen.
However, Google has included a warning that changing these settings while apps are running could cause them to stop unexpectedly. The addition of this feature aligns with Google’s ongoing work to enhance the desktop experience on Android.
2. Progress in Desktop Mode: Android 15 continues to refine its desktop mode, an experimental feature that allows users to use their phones like a desktop computer when connected to an external display. The latest beta version includes a new toggle in the Developer options under “System Settings” called “Enable desktop mode on secondary display.” This replaces the older “Force desktop mode” toggle.
Although the current state of desktop mode in this beta is not fully functional, it shows that Google is making progress. The feature is still under development, with several important elements, such as window management options, yet to be activated. However, when fully developed, this mode could provide a more flexible, PC-like experience directly from your Android device.
3. Enhanced Do Not Disturb Mode: One of the standout updates in Android 15 is the revamp of the Do Not Disturb (DND) mode, now integrated into a broader “Priority Mode.” This mode not only includes the traditional DND settings but also offers expanded customization options. Users can create custom schedules, adjust notification settings, and even configure display settings like grayscale mode or dark themes.
The Priority Mode feature, currently in beta, represents a significant upgrade in how Android handles notifications and interruptions, giving users more control over their digital environment.
Conclusion: Android 15 is shaping up to be a significant update, with enhancements in display management, desktop usability, and notification control. While some features are still in development, the new settings and modes provide a glimpse of the platform’s future capabilities. As the final release approaches, users can expect a more refined and versatile experience with Android 15.
Android
Android Auto 14.3 brings more bug fixes and starts wider rollout

Google has started rolling out Android Auto version 14.3 more widely after a limited release earlier this month. This update doesn’t bring new features, but it focuses on making things work better by fixing bugs and improving performance.
Android Auto 14.3 began showing up for more users through the Google Play Store, especially those using the beta version. If you’re already part of the beta program, you should see the update soon. For others, the rollout is happening gradually, so it might take a few days to appear.
While Google hasn’t provided detailed patch notes for this version, early users say that the update improves the overall experience by making the system more stable. Users haven’t noticed major visual changes, but smoother performance is always welcome, especially during driving.
As usual, Android Auto updates mostly happen in the background. If you want to check which version you have, open Android Auto settings on your phone. You can also join the beta program or install the APK manually if the update hasn’t reached your device yet.
In short, Android Auto 14.3 is all about improving stability and fixing problems that users might have faced in previous versions. It’s part of Google’s regular efforts to make the in-car experience better and safer for everyone.
Android
Android 16 brings smart notification shortcuts with ‘Magic’ actions

Android 16 could include an update to make notifications simpler to process. Google is working on a feature called “notification cooldown with action buttons,” which addresses repeated alerts and provides helpful buttons whenever needed.
If you keep getting lots of notifications from the same app, Android usually does not alert you right away. Android 14 and 15 are currently testing the feature known as notification cooldown.
Now with Android 16, Google could go one step more by allowing app developers to add smart actions to each notification. They are helpful because they can respond to your recent usage of the apps or programs.
In some cases, if you get notified while using music, the message will also have an option to immediately handle your music settings. Similarly, a “reply” button may appear quickly or you could get other options useful for whatever is going on in your phone. It allows you to perform tasks you see in the notification without going into the app.
There is no official release yet, yet the code included in Android 16 hints that it is under development. If this solution is used, it may make receiving notifications more useful and less troublesome.
Generally, Android 16 attempts to make receiving notifications easier and more useful with its “magic” actions.
Android
Gboard gets a fresh emoji menu with a cleaner look

Google is rolling out a new look for the emoji section in Gboard, giving it a cleaner and simpler design. This updated layout is starting to show up for users on the latest Gboard beta version (13.9), and it might soon come to the stable version too.
In the new design, the emoji panel now floats above the keyboard instead of being attached to it. The search bar, category tabs, and the emoji grid all appear inside a neat floating window with rounded corners. This gives the whole emoji section a modern and less cluttered appearance.
The categories at the top are still there, but they now sit in a card-style bar that blends nicely with the rest of the UI. The search bar has also been updated with a clearer background, making it easier to use. Even though the layout looks different, the actual emoji and features like stickers and GIFs are still available and work the same way.
Some users have also noticed that this new style matches the look of other Google apps that follow the updated Material You design. It’s part of Google’s effort to make its apps feel more consistent and user-friendly across Android.
Right now, the redesign seems to be rolling out in stages, so not everyone will see it immediately. If you’re using Gboard beta, you might already have it, or it could show up soon.
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