Unexpected OEM Becomes the Pioneer to Launch Android 15 Updates

Unexpected OEM Becomes the Pioneer to Launch Android 15 Updates

Unexpected OEM Becomes the Pioneer to Launch Android 15 Updates


# Vivo Surpasses Google and Samsung by Launching Android 15 First

In an unexpected development, Vivo has successfully surpassed tech titans Google and Samsung by being the premier major brand to launch **Android 15** for its users. The company’s tailored iteration of the operating system, **Funtouch OS 15**, is now accessible on various flagship models, including the **Vivo X100 series**, **Vivo X Fold 3 Pro**, and **iQOO 12**. This early rollout has astonished many within the tech community, given that Google’s own Pixel devices have yet to receive the stable Android 15 update, even though the operating system is already live on the **Android Open Source Project (AOSP)**.

## Essential Insights

– **Vivo** has initiated the rollout of **Funtouch OS 15**, based on **Android 15**, for specific flagship models ahead of the official release date of **September 30**.
– The update unveils several novel AI-driven tools, including an **AI Eraser**, a **shadow removal tool**, and **Live Transcribe**.
– While Google is typically at the forefront of Android updates, the Pixel series has not yet obtained a stable Android 15 update, even with the OS being available on the AOSP.

## Vivo’s Daring Step

Historically, Google’s Pixel phones are the first recipients of new Android updates, followed closely by Samsung’s **One UI** updates. However, Vivo has disrupted this norm by releasing the stable version of **Funtouch OS 15** prior to Google or Samsung launching their iterations of Android 15. Tech insider **Ishan Agarwal** reports that Vivo has already started deploying the update to flagship devices like the **Vivo X100 series**, **Vivo X Fold 3 Pro**, and **iQOO 12**.

This early rollout is especially significant as it heralds a major shift within the Android update ecosystem. Vivo has outpaced Google in this instance, despite the search giant making Android 15 accessible on the AOSP earlier this month. This scenario implies that any manufacturer could, in theory, create and release their own customized version of Android 15, but Vivo leads the pack in this regard.

### A Tweet That Reverberated in the Tech Community

Agarwal shared his surprise on **X (formerly Twitter)** upon receiving the Android 15 update on his **Vivo X Fold 3 Pro**. In his tweet, he remarked on how astonishing it was that Vivo had rolled out the update before Google’s Pixel devices even had it. His message quickly gained traction, celebrating Vivo’s milestone and igniting conversations about the outlook of Android updates.

> “My vivo X Fold3 Pro just received Android 15 update. Crazy how Vivo is the 1st major brand to be rolling out this out to their flagships. Not even Google Pixel has a stable update yet. Hoping for a just as good of an experience with FuntouchOS 15. Good job @Vivo_India.”
> — Ishan Agarwal (@ishanagarwal24)

## Innovations in Funtouch OS 15

Vivo’s **Funtouch OS 15** introduces a host of thrilling features, many driven by AI. Notable tools include:

– **AI Eraser**: A fresh feature in the Gallery app that enables users to eliminate unwanted items from their pictures, akin to Google Photos’ **Magic Eraser**.
– **Shadow Removal Tool**: A utility that aids users in removing shadows from their photos, thus enhancing image quality.
– **Live Transcribe**: A live transcription tool that translates spoken words into text, simplifying the process for users to capture dialogues or jot down notes.

Alongside these AI-enhanced features, Funtouch OS 15 also prioritizes user privacy and connectivity. Key advancements encompass **partial screen sharing** and support for **satellite connectivity**, which could be beneficial in regions with sparse cellular service.

## Why is Google Lagging Behind?

Though Google has already provided Android 15 on the AOSP, the company has not yet launched a stable version of the OS for its Pixel devices. The **Pixel 9** series, anticipated to be the first to get the update, remains in limbo, with Android 15’s public release likely slated for mid-October. This delay has frustrated numerous Pixel users, especially since Vivo has proceeded with the update for its flagship models.

Samsung, another significant entity in the Android landscape, has also been notably silent regarding its Android 15 plans. The company has yet to unveil any specifics about the **One UI 7** beta, expected to be based on Android 15.

## The Consequences for the Android Ecosystem

Vivo’s early introduction of Android 15 prompts crucial inquiries about