Google's upcoming Android 15 release is shaping up to be more significant than initially thought, with two notable features recently uncovered in beta versions: a revamped keyboard switcher and the return of lock screen widgets for tablets.
Faster Keyboard Switching
Android 15 QPR1 (Quarterly Platform Release 1) introduces a redesigned keyboard switcher that promises to streamline the user experience:
- One-tap switching: Users can now switch keyboards with a single tap, instead of the previous two-step process.
- New icon: The keyboard switcher button now features a wireframe globe icon, replacing the abstract keyboard design.
- Improved accessibility: A long-press on the new button opens the full keyboard switcher menu, which is now positioned lower on the screen for easier one-handed use.
- Modern design: The switcher dialog has been updated to align with Material You design principles.
This update addresses several pain points of the current keyboard switcher, making it faster and more intuitive to use multiple input methods.
Lock Screen Widgets Return (For Tablets)
In a blast from the past, Android 15 QPR Beta 1 reveals the reintroduction of lock screen widgets, a feature absent since Android 5. However, there's a significant caveat:
- Tablet-exclusive: Currently, lock screen widgets appear to be limited to Android tablets, with no indication of smartphone support.
- Security considerations: The system warns users about potential privacy risks when adding certain widgets to the lock screen.
- No shortcuts: At present, the feature doesn't support adding app shortcuts to the lock screen.
While the return of lock screen widgets is exciting for tablet users, the exclusion of smartphone support may disappoint some Android enthusiasts.
Looking Ahead
These features, while promising, are still in beta testing. The keyboard switcher improvements could arrive relatively soon, given their apparent polish. The timeline for lock screen widgets is less certain, but their presence in the beta suggests Google is actively developing the feature.
As Android 15 continues to evolve through its beta cycle, it's becoming clear that this update may offer more substantial changes than initially perceived. Users can look forward to a more refined and feature-rich experience, particularly when it comes to input methods and tablet functionality.