Android
Android 15 stable update released for Pixel devices on beta 4.2
Google has started rolling out the Android 15 stable update to Pixel devices currently running Android 15 Beta 4.2. This update comes shortly after the release of Android 14’s OTA (Over-The-Air) update. Android 15 Beta 4.2 was originally released in mid-August, marking the last major update before the introduction of the Android 15 Quarterly Platform Release 1 (QPR1) Beta, which is expected to launch in December.
Android 15 Beta 4.2 and the Stable Update Rollout
The Android 15 Beta 4.2 update featured the August 2024 security patch and was initially made available to Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL users. However, many users opted to wait for the final stable version of Android 15 rather than diving into the Android 15 QPR1 Beta. For those who wanted to avoid the QPR1 Beta testing, Google recommended opting out of the Android Beta Program and ignoring the downgrade OTA back to Android 14. This meant that users had to stick with Beta 4.2 for a couple of months, with no additional updates in September.
The stable Android 15 update is now arriving for users who remained on Beta 4.2. The size of the OTA update is around 200MB, which is significantly smaller than the Android 14 update that was over 1GB.
Features Removed from Stable Android 15
While Android 15 Beta 4.2 introduced several new features, not all of them made it to the stable release. Notably, Google removed the Device Diagnostics and Adaptive Timeout features, which had been part of the Beta 4.2 release. These changes are part of Google’s refinement process, ensuring that the final public version of Android 15 is optimized for users.
QPR1 Beta and Expected Updates
As for Android 15 QPR1, the last update, Beta 2, was released on September 12, but Google has not provided any new patches or updates since then. Some known bugs, like issues with capturing screenshots, missing lock screen shortcuts, and problems with exiting apps while on the lock screen, have yet to be addressed. However, Google is expected to release another update, either Beta 2.1 or Beta 3, before the December launch of QPR1.
In summary, the Android 15 stable update is now rolling out to Pixel devices on Beta 4.2, offering a smooth transition to the final version. Google continues to work on the upcoming QPR1 release, with more updates anticipated before the end of the year.
Android Auto is a helpful tool that lets you use your phone’s apps safely while driving. It connects your phone to your car’s screen, making it easier to use maps, music, and calls. One of the features many people like is the ability to change how Android Auto looks by switching between light and dark themes.
How to switch between light and dark themes
Android Auto offers two main themes: light and dark. The light theme uses brighter colors, which can make the screen easier to see during the day. The dark theme uses darker colors, which can be more comfortable for your eyes at night or in low light.
To change the theme, follow these steps:
- Open the Android Auto app on your phone.
- Go to the settings menu.
- Find the “Theme” option.
- Choose between “Light,” “Dark,” or “Set by car” (this lets your car decide the theme based on the time of day or your car’s settings).
Why themes matter
Using the right theme can make driving safer and more comfortable. The light theme is good for bright days, while the dark theme helps reduce glare at night. Having these options means you can pick what works best for you, making Android Auto easier to use in any condition.
In short, Android Auto’s theme options are simple to use and help you drive more safely by making the screen easy to see, no matter the time of day.
Google has just rolled out some exciting updates across its services and apps. Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s new and what it means for you.
Gemini 2.5 Pro is here
Google has launched Gemini 2.5 Pro, the latest version of its AI model. This upgrade brings smarter and faster responses, making it easier for users to get helpful answers. Gemini 2.5 Pro is now available in Google’s AI Studio and Vertex AI, so developers can build even better tools and apps using this technology.
Android 16 brings more customization
Android 16 is adding new ways to personalize your phone. One of the standout features is the ability to hide the clock on your lock screen, giving you a cleaner look if you want it. This is part of Google’s push to let users make their phones feel more unique. There’s also a new animation for the power button, making the experience smoother and more modern when you turn your phone on or off.
Google Messages removes the unsubscribe button
If you use Google Messages, you might notice that the “Unsubscribe” button is gone from some business messages. Google has removed this feature, so users now have to find other ways to stop unwanted texts. This change might make it a bit harder to manage spam, but Google hasn’t said why the option was removed.
What does this mean for you
These updates show that Google is focused on making its products smarter and more personal. Whether you’re using AI tools, customizing your phone, or managing your messages, you’ll see some changes that aim to improve your experience.
Google Keep is getting a fresh look with the new Material You design, making it more colorful and easier to use on Wear OS smartwatches. The update brings bigger buttons and clearer text, so you can quickly jot down notes or check your lists right from your wrist. This makes Google Keep more handy when you’re on the go and don’t want to pull out your phone.
On another front, Android Automotive is improving how apps show information while you drive. Instead of opening full apps, you’ll see simple cards on your car’s screen that give you important details at a glance.
These cards help keep your focus on the road by showing things like music controls, navigation updates, or reminders without distractions. This new card system is designed to work smoothly with apps like media players and navigation tools, making your driving experience safer and more convenient.
Together, these updates show Google’s effort to make its apps smarter and easier to use in everyday life, whether you’re walking around with your smartwatch or driving your car. The focus is on clear, simple designs that help you get things done quickly without hassle.
In short, Google Keep’s new look on Wear OS and the smart cards in Android Automotive are small but useful changes that make tech fit better into your daily routine.
-
Apps1 year agoGboard Proofread feature will support selected text
-
News1 year agoSamsung USA crafting One UI 6.1.1
-
Apps12 months agoGoogle Contacts app testing new Besties Widget
-
AI12 months agoGoogle Pixel 9 Pro may come with a complimentary one-year Gemini Advanced subscription
-
News1 year ago
Breaking: Samsung Galaxy S22 may get Galaxy AI features
-
Apps12 months agoGoogle working on a new video editing feature for its Photo app
-
Apps12 months agoGoogle Maps lets you report traffic jams and accidents on Apple CarPlay, but not on Android Auto
-
Apps12 months agoGoogle Messages app will transform MMS chats into RCS