Key Points:
- Restored Cast Volume Controls: Android 15 Beta 2 brings back the ability to control the volume of speaker groups while casting on Pixel phones.
- Changes to Pixel Stand Slideshow: The time and charging status no longer appear in the Google Photos slideshow on the Pixel Stand.
- Ongoing Casting Features Issues: Despite improvements, some casting features like stream expansion are still missing on Pixel devices.
Last week, Google unveiled the second beta of Android 15, introducing notable features such as Private Space, App Pairs, and Predictive Back. However, the most significant surprise was the return of a volume-related feature: the ability to control the volume of speaker groups while casting on Pixel phones. This functionality had been missing due to a legal dispute with Sonos, which led Google to disable it on Pixel devices.
With Android 15 Beta 2, Pixel users can once again adjust the volume of their speaker groups directly from their phones, even when casting audio through apps like YouTube Music. This capability, previously blocked on Pixel devices, is now reinstated, enhancing the user experience significantly.
Furthermore, Android 15 Beta 2 introduces changes to the Pixel Stand’s Google Photos slideshow. When a Pixel phone is placed on the stand, the slideshow no longer displays the time and charging status, showing only the album name at the bottom-right corner. Additionally, the Google Assistant icon has been removed from the always-on display, although voice activation via the “Hey Google” hotword remains functional.
Despite these updates, some casting features are still absent on Pixel devices. For instance, stream expansion, which allows users to add more devices to an ongoing cast session, remains unavailable. This functionality works on many non-Pixel devices but has yet to be reintroduced on Pixel phones, even those running the latest beta.
Overall, Android 15 Beta 2 marks a significant step forward for Pixel users, restoring critical features and making noteworthy changes to the Pixel Stand experience. While some gaps remain, these updates reflect Google’s ongoing efforts to enhance and refine the Android ecosystem.
