Pixel phones get first taste of Android 15 beta: Privacy and security features take centre stage

Google releases the first beta of Android 15 for Pixel phones
An undated image of Android 14. — Google
An undated image of Android 14. — Google

Eager to try the next Android? Google released the first beta of Android 15 for Pixel phones. This update offers a glimpse into upcoming privacy and security features.

New options under "Cellular network security" allow users to require encryption on cellular connections and receive warnings for insecure networks. Wi-Fi network details now include a "Send device name" toggle, likely to prevent sharing your phone's name.

After installing Android 15 Beta 1, users will see a new section called Cellular network security under Settings > Security & privacy > More security & privacy called that allows users to require encryption when connecting to cellular networks, or receive notifications when connecting to insecure networks.

The beta also brings some convenience features. You can now set a default wallet app and Pixel users get new weather widgets for the home screen.

It's important to remember that this is a beta version, so it might have bugs. Consider installing it on a secondary device and be sure to check Google's release notes for known issues before updating your main phone.