Google officially rolled out Android 15 on October 15, 2024, after months of testing. At first glance, this update may not seem revolutionary, as it does not introduce a major visual overhaul or drastic redesigns to key elements like the home screen or quick settings. However, a closer look reveals that Android 15 brings several practical enhancements that improve the overall user experience in meaningful ways.
While much of the attention has been directed toward features like Private Space, satellite connectivity, predictive back gestures, and app archiving, there are several lesser-known additions that are just as useful. These hidden gems may not be widely discussed, but they offer convenience, security, and efficiency that make everyday smartphone use smoother.
From improving webcam functionality to enhancing battery health and boosting privacy, Android 15 includes subtle yet impactful changes that many users will appreciate. Below are six underrated features in Android 15 that can make a significant difference in how you use your device.
1. Use Your Android Phone as a High-Quality Webcam
Android 14 introduced the ability to use an Android phone as a webcam for a PC, but Android 15 refines this feature by offering a high-quality mode. This upgrade improves video clarity when using a wired connection, making it ideal for video calls, virtual meetings, or content creation. The higher resolution and enhanced video processing result in a much clearer and professional-looking image.
However, one trade-off with this improved mode is that it requires more processing power, which may cause the device to heat up slightly. This is because the phone disables several background optimizations to maximize video output quality. Despite this, the ability to turn an Android phone into a high-quality webcam is a valuable feature, especially for those who work remotely or frequently engage in video conferencing.
Enabling this feature is simple. Users just need to connect their phone to a PC via USB, select the Webcam option from the USB settings, and tap the HQ button located in the upper-left corner. With these quick steps, Android 15 allows users to leverage their phone’s camera as a superior webcam without the need for additional accessories.
2. Extend Battery Lifespan with Charging Optimization
Smartphone batteries degrade over time, and with brands offering extended software support for devices, maintaining battery health has become more crucial than ever. Android 15 introduces a new charging optimization feature that allows users to limit battery charging to 80%. This simple yet effective function can significantly improve battery longevity, reducing wear and tear caused by frequent full charges.
When activated, this feature ensures that the phone stops charging once it reaches 80%, preventing excessive strain on the battery. This is particularly useful for users who keep their devices plugged in for long periods, such as overnight charging. Over time, limiting the maximum charge percentage helps preserve battery efficiency, ensuring the device remains functional for years without experiencing major battery performance issues.
The option to enable this feature is easily accessible in the settings menu. Google Pixel users can activate it by navigating to Settings, selecting Battery, and enabling Charging Optimization. This feature has been present in some Samsung devices running One UI 6.1 (based on Android 14), but Android 15 now integrates it as a standard function across more Android devices.
3. Hide Your Device Name from Public Wi-Fi Networks
Security and privacy are a major focus of Android 15, and one of its lesser-known but highly useful features is the ability to hide a device’s name when connecting to Wi-Fi networks. This function is particularly beneficial when accessing public networks in places like cafes, hotels, and airports, where broadcasting a device name could expose users to unnecessary security risks.
By default, when a device connects to a Wi-Fi network, its name is visible to other users on the same network. This visibility could make it easier for malicious actors to track devices or attempt unauthorized access. Android 15 addresses this issue by allowing users to toggle off the “Send device name” setting, ensuring that their identity remains private while using public Wi-Fi.
Additionally, Android 15 provides the option to randomize the device’s MAC address, further enhancing privacy. This prevents network administrators or other users from tracking a device based on its network address. To enable these settings, users can go to Network & Internet settings, tap on the connected Wi-Fi network, and toggle off the device name display while opting for a randomized MAC address for extra security.
4. Create App Pairs for Faster Multitasking
For years, Android users have had access to split-screen mode, which allows them to run two apps side by side. However, switching between split-screen app combinations has always been a bit of a hassle. Android 15 improves this experience with the introduction of app pairs, which lets users create shortcut icons for frequently used split-screen app combinations.
This means that instead of manually opening two apps and setting them up in split-screen mode every time, users can now create an app pair that launches both apps simultaneously with a single tap. This is particularly helpful for those who frequently use certain app combinations, such as a browser and a note-taking app or messaging and video streaming apps.
Setting up an app pair is straightforward. Users simply need to open two apps in split-screen mode, access the recent apps menu, tap on the app icons, and select the Save App Pair option. Once saved, the paired apps can be launched instantly from the home screen or app drawer, making multitasking far more efficient. For users with foldable devices or tablets, Android 15 also allows apps to be pinned to the taskbar for even quicker access.
5. Enhanced Theft Protection for Better Security
Losing a smartphone can be a stressful experience, especially considering the personal data stored on it. Android 15 introduces robust theft protection measures to prevent unauthorized access to stolen devices. This update makes it significantly harder for thieves to wipe and reset a stolen phone, effectively rendering it unusable.
Previously, resetting a stolen phone was often as simple as performing a factory reset and setting it up with a new account. Android 15 changes this by requiring authentication through the original lock screen or Google account before the device can be reset. This added layer of security ensures that even if a device falls into the wrong hands, it cannot be easily accessed or resold.
Additionally, Android 15 uses motion sensors and AI to detect suspicious activity, such as sudden movements that indicate potential theft. If the phone senses that it is being snatched, it can instantly lock the screen to prevent unauthorized access. These proactive security measures make Android 15 one of the most secure Android versions yet. Users can enable these theft protection features by going to the Security & Privacy settings on their devices.
6. Set Any App as the Default Wallet
Google Wallet is widely used for digital transactions, but in some regions, it may not be available or preferred. Android 15 offers more flexibility by allowing users to set any third-party app as their default wallet app, ensuring greater control over payment methods.
Previously, Google Wallet was often the default option for contactless payments, and users had to manually switch to another app when making transactions. With Android 15, users can now select their preferred digital wallet app and set it as the default, eliminating unnecessary steps when making purchases. This feature is especially useful in countries where alternative payment apps are more commonly used than Google Wallet.
Changing the default wallet app is simple. Users just need to go to Settings, navigate to the Apps section, select Default Apps, and choose Wallet App. From there, they can pick their preferred payment service. While this may seem like a minor update, it offers more customization and convenience, ensuring a smoother payment experience.
Android 15 Delivers Small but Meaningful Enhancements
While Android 15 may not be the most visually striking update, it introduces several practical improvements that enhance usability, security, and efficiency. From transforming a phone into a high-quality webcam to strengthening theft protection and improving multitasking, these hidden features offer tangible benefits that make everyday tasks easier.
These underrated additions prove that even small software tweaks can significantly improve the overall user experience. As more users explore Android 15’s new capabilities, these features will likely become invaluable tools for enhancing productivity, security, and convenience.
Whether you are upgrading to Android 15 for its security enhancements, battery-saving options, or improved multitasking tools, these lesser-known features make the update well worth exploring.