# Numerous New Features, Yet These Are My Top Picks in Android 15
Android 15 has launched, bringing along a multitude of thrilling new features that enrich the user experience in both significant and subtle ways. Although the update followed the release of Google’s newest Pixel smartphones, it was definitely worth the anticipation. In conjunction with the Android 15 update, Google also introduced the October Pixel Feature Drop, providing users with even more opportunities to discover and enjoy.
In this piece, I’ll guide you through some of my preferred features from Android 15. While this isn’t a comprehensive overview of all the new elements, these are the ones that have particularly resonated with me.
## 1. **App Archiving**
*(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)*
If you’re anything like me, you likely download numerous apps, only to later forget about them. The **App Archiving** feature in Android 15 has transformed the way I manage apps. It enables you to archive apps that you don’t frequently use, thereby freeing up storage space without needing to delete them completely. The best part? This feature isn’t restricted to apps from the Play Store—you can also archive apps from third-party sources such as F-Droid. It has been invaluable in managing my phone’s storage while keeping access to apps I may need in the future.
## 2. **One-tap Passkey**
*(Image credit: 1Password)*
I’ve always appreciated two-factor authentication, but **Passkeys** have been somewhat inconsistent for me. Android 15 has enhanced the Passkey experience by streamlining the login procedure to just a single tap. Although it might appear to be a minor adjustment, it significantly speeds up the process of logging into Passkey-enabled accounts, making it less cumbersome. This feature is especially beneficial when you’re pressed for time and wish to avoid a lengthy login.
## 3. **Manually Activate Astrophotography**
*(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)*
Capturing the night sky has become simpler thanks to Android 15’s capability to **manually activate Astrophotography mode**. In the past, you had to depend on the phone’s automatic detection to enable this mode, which could be frustrating when conditions weren’t ideal. Now, you can switch it on manually, ensuring that you can seize stunning celestial phenomena like the Northern Lights, which I was fortunate enough to photograph recently.
## 4. **Home Controls on the Lock Screen**
*(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)*
Android 15 presents **Home Controls on the lock screen**, streamlining the management of your smart home devices. Whether you utilize Google Home or a custom Home Assistant dashboard, you can now access your controls straight from the lock screen. This feature has proven particularly effective for me, as it allows control over lights, thermostats, and other devices without needing to unlock my phone.
## 5. **Pin the Taskbar**
*(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)*
For those who enjoy foldable phones or tablets, the ability to **pin the Taskbar** in Android 15 will likely be a hit. This feature, initially available on Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series, keeps the Taskbar visible at all times, facilitating smoother multitasking. It’s a minor enhancement that significantly boosts the overall user experience on larger displays.
## 6. **App Continuity: Transition from Large Screen to Small Screen**
*(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)*
One of the most valuable features for users of foldable phones is **App Continuity**, allowing for a seamless transition between inner and outer screens. Whether you’re utilizing a Pixel Fold or
