Android

Android 15 QPR1 beta brings desktop mode to Pixel Tablet, settings redesign, and lock screen widgets and more

Published

3 weeks ago

September 13, 2024

Tom Carter

Key Points:

Desktop Windowing: Allows multiple apps to run in resizable windows, enhancing productivity on Pixel Tablets.
Settings Redesign: Streamlined organization with Material You updates for easier navigation.
Lock Screen Widgets: Brings back lock screen widgets, but only on Pixel Tablets.

Android 15 QPR1 Beta: New Features and Installation Guide for Pixel Devices

Google has introduced several new features with the Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2, focusing on improved multitasking and usability on Pixel devices, especially tablets. Let’s explore the key updates in this release and how to install the beta version on your device.

Desktop Windowing on Pixel Tablet

One of the major highlights is the new desktop windowing mode, now available in Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2 for Pixel Tablets. This feature allows users to resize app windows and run multiple apps simultaneously, giving a more desktop-like experience. You can pin apps on the taskbar, and each app window now has a customizable header bar with window controls. These controls let you switch between fullscreen and windowed modes with ease.

To enable this mode:

Go to Settings > System > Developer options.
Turn on Freeform Windows.

Once activated, you can adjust app windows by dragging a handle at the top of each app window, making multitasking even more flexible. The desktop windowing mode can be controlled through keyboard shortcuts for added convenience.

Settings Redesign with Material You

Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2 also brings a redesigned Settings app, improving organization and aesthetics. The new layout groups related preferences under visually distinct sections, helping users navigate more easily. The search bar has been revamped into a taller, pill-shaped design, and the app items are displayed in clear cards, making them easier to distinguish. These tweaks enhance the overall user experience while giving a fresh look.

Lock Screen Widgets Return (Tablet-Only)

Lock screen widgets, previously removed from Android versions, have made a comeback in Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2. These widgets are available by default on Pixel Tablets and allow users to add app widgets like Spotify, Google Clock, and Google Weather directly on the lock screen. Users can customize their lock screen widget panel without unlocking the device, although unlocking is required to access the full app.

Currently, this feature is exclusive to tablets, with no support for phones in this beta version.

How to Install Android 15 QPR1 Beta on Pixel Devices

The Android 15 QPR1 Beta is available for Pixel devices released since 2021, including Pixel 6, Pixel 7, and Pixel 8 series. You can install the beta via two methods:

OTA Update via the Android Beta Program:
- Visit google.com/android/beta and opt in with your Pixel device.
- After enrolling, check for the OTA update on your device and install it.
Manual Installation via Sideload:
- Download the Android 15 Beta OTA file for your specific device.
- Boot your device into Recovery Mode and navigate to ADB Sideload.
- Connect your phone to a computer with ADB tools and use the command adb sideload to install the update.
- Once completed, reboot your device.

Make sure to back up your data and enable OEM Unlocking before attempting a sideload.

Most people will be installing via the Android Beta Program, but you can also flash or sideload.

Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Factory Image — OTA
Pixel 9 Pro XL: Factory Image — OTA
Pixel 9 Pro: Factory Image — OTA
Pixel 9: Factory Image — OTA
Pixel 8a: Factory Image — OTA
Pixel 8 Pro: Factory Image — OTA
Pixel 8: Factory Image — OTA
Pixel Fold: Factory Image — OTA
Pixel Tablet: Factory Image — OTA
Pixel 7a: Factory Image — OTA
Pixel 7 Pro: Factory Image — OTA
Pixel 7: Factory Image — OTA
Pixel 6a: Factory Image — OTA
Pixel 6 Pro: Factory Image — OTA
Pixel 6: Factory Image — OTA

Conclusion

With Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2, Google is enhancing the user experience with features like desktop windowing, a revamped settings app, and the return of lock screen widgets for tablets. These updates push Android closer to a more flexible, desktop-like environment, especially on larger devices like the Pixel Tablet.

For those interested in trying out these features, the beta is available now for Pixel devices. Be mindful, however, that these updates are still in beta, and you may encounter bugs or unfinished features.

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Android

Android Auto gets a behind-the-scenes update

Published

1 day ago

October 6, 2024

Tom Carter

Google has released a new version of Android Auto, version 13.0. While you won’t see any big changes on the surface, some important updates are happening under the hood.

What’s New?

Car Media: Google is working on a new feature called “Car Media.” This feature will allow you to easily control your car’s AM/FM radio and local media.
Bug Fixes: The update includes bug fixes and improvements to make Android Auto run smoothly.

When Will Car Media Be Available?

Google hasn’t announced an official release date for Car Media yet. But they’re actively working on it, and we might see it in a future update.

How to Get Android Auto 13.0

The Android Auto 13.0 update is available now on the Google Play Store. Just search for “Android Auto” and install the latest version.

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Android

Google Maps incident reporting now available on Android Automotive

Published

3 days ago

October 4, 2024

Tom Carter

Android Automotive users can now report traffic incidents directly from their cars, thanks to a recent update that brings this feature to Google Maps on the in-car operating system. This is a significant improvement over the previous limitations, which restricted incident reporting to mobile devices only.

With this new functionality, Android Automotive users can easily report a variety of traffic issues, such as accidents, road closures, traffic congestion, and other hazards. To report an incident, simply open Google Maps and tap the yellow hazard triangle. You’ll then be presented with a list of options to choose from, allowing you to accurately describe the situation.

This feature is particularly useful for keeping roads safe and improving traffic flow. By reporting incidents promptly, users can help other drivers avoid potential dangers and plan their routes more efficiently. Additionally, the data collected from these reports can be used by traffic management authorities to make informed decisions about road closures, detours, and other measures to alleviate congestion.

Overall, the ability to report traffic incidents directly from Android Automotive is a valuable addition that enhances the user experience and contributes to safer roads for everyone.

Android

Google cancels One-Click Chrome OS on Android

Published

3 days ago

October 4, 2024

Tom Carter

Google’s dream of turning Android phones into powerful PC replacements has taken a hit. The company has decided to stop developing an app that would have made it super easy to run Chrome OS on Android devices.

What does this mean?

It used to be that you could run Chrome OS, a lightweight operating system designed for computers, on your Android phone. This would have turned your phone into a mini-laptop, allowing you to do things like work, browse the internet, and use productivity apps.

Why did Google cancel the app?

While Google didn’t give a specific reason, it seems like they might be focusing on other projects or exploring different ways to integrate Chrome OS into their Android ecosystem.

What’s the big deal about Chrome OS on Android?

Imagine being able to use your phone like a computer. You could use office apps, run multiple apps at once, and even connect a keyboard and mouse for a more desktop-like experience. It’s a cool idea that many people were excited about.

Is there still hope?

Even though Google canceled the app, they might revisit this idea in the future. Plus, there are other ways to run Chrome OS on Android, although they are more complicated and require technical know-how.

So, while Google’s one-click Chrome OS dream is on hold for now, it’s still something to keep an eye on. Who knows what the future holds for Android and Chrome OS?

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