5 Android 15 Features iOS Should Learn From

Here are some of the standout features of Android 15 that Apple should consider emulating to make iOS even better.

1. Theft Detection Lock

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One of the security features introduced with Android 15 — though not exclusive to Android 15 devices — is Theft Detection Lock, a security feature that's still missing on iOS. Android phones can now use on-device AI and data from a variety of sensors to recognize movement patterns commonly associated with theft.

When suspicious activity is detected, your Android device will automatically lock, protecting sensitive user data and giving the owner the opportunity to locate the device using Find My Device. This feature works in tandem with tools like Offline Device Lock and Remote Lock to protect user data in the event of theft.

While iOS does offer Stolen Device Protection, which prevents thieves from performing critical actions like resetting an iPhone passcode or changing an Apple account password, it uses location tracking and lacks a proactive locking mechanism like this. Adding such real-time theft prevention would be a game changer for iPhone users.

2. Record a portion of the screen

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Android 15 introduced a smart option for screen recording — users can choose to record or share just a specific app instead of the entire screen. This feature is ideal for app-specific tutorials or troubleshooting, as it prevents sensitive notifications or personal information from other apps from being recorded.

Even if you switch to another app or exit the app you're recording, Android 15 will automatically pause the recording, ensuring that only that specific app is being recorded. While iOS offers screen recording, it doesn't eliminate notifications unless you enable Do Not Disturb or let you share recordings from a specific app.

3. Private space

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One notable addition in Android 15 is the Private Space feature, which lets users create a completely separate area on their device to store sensitive information. This isn't just a simple folder or a feature like dual apps. Private Space is a completely hidden environment where apps, files, and data are completely separate from the main system. Content in the Private Space doesn't appear in notifications, app lists, or search results.

Setting up a Private Space on Android 15 is easy, and users can secure it with an alternative key that's different from their device's main lock screen password. While Apple regularly touts its commitment to privacy and offers features like locked notes and hidden photo albums, these options don't come close to the level of control that a Private Space offers.

4. Expanded volume control panel

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One of the least-noticed upgrades to Android 15 is the redesigned volume control. While it takes up more space in its expanded state than previous versions, it offers much-needed granular control. You can adjust media, ringer, notification, alarm volume, and even the audio output device—all from one place.

By contrast, iOS only allows users to change media volume by default, often requiring users to open the Settings app to tweak other audio levels. iOS could greatly benefit from a similar, more streamlined volume control system like this.

5. Circle to Search

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Circle to Search is another handy feature that isn't exclusive to Android 15 but is still missing on iOS. It uses Google's visual search to identify or gather information about almost anything on the screen simply by holding down the home button or navigation bar and drawing a circle around the subject — without having to exit the current app.

It's especially useful when browsing apps like Instagram or TikTok, where you might want to learn more about a product or object you come across. With Android 15, Google has taken Circle to Search even further by integrating audio search directly into it. Circle to Search is one of those features you'll miss the moment you switch between your Android and iPhone devices. Hopefully Apple brings something similar to iOS.

While Android 15 may not seem like a major upgrade, it does bring some thoughtful features that enhance both functionality and user privacy. While iOS has caught up with Android in terms of customization in recent years, there are still many features that Apple's platform lacks. The features listed here will definitely improve the iPhone experience.

Jessica Tanner

Update 22 November 2024