Android 15’s Private Space will let you hide apps in a separate profile

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Google plans to release Android 15 later this year, packed with several useful features. One particularly noteworthy addition is the Private Space feature. Think of it as Google’s version of Samsung’s Secure Folder but with a few enhancements. Private Space essentially creates a separate, locked profile within the operating system, making it easy to hide applications.

Tech journalist Mishaal Rahman first brought attention to this feature in December 2023. Initially, it offered improved control over your private space’s visibility. However, since then, Private Space has undergone significant modifications. While it’s not yet available in Android 15 Developer Preview 2 or Android 14 QPR3 Beta 2.1, it’s expected to go live in stable Android 15.

An APK Teardown shows the setup process and functionality of the Private Space

With the release of Android 14 QPR3 Beta 2.1, Rahman executed the APK Teardown of the Private Space feature (via Android Authority). This report showcases the setup process and functionality of Private Space, providing users with insights into its workings. As such, you’ll want to take this news with a grain of salt.

The setup process begins by introducing Private Space as a built-in feature of Android 15. That means users will no longer have to rely on a third-party app locker. Data transmission from one locker to another is not possible, ensuring data security. Additionally, the data is accessible from any PC to which it is connected.

The following setup page asks users to create a separate Google Account to store private data. This mechanism ensures that the data is not leaked due to certain actions of the user.

The final step is to set the password. Users can use an existing lock screen or create a new one, choosing from options such as a PIN, Pattern, or Password. While fingerprint registration is an option for unlocking Private Space, a backup password is still required.

Android 15′ Private Space accessibility

Accessing Private Space settings is straightforward, located under Settings > Security & privacy > Private Space. Here, users can set the timing for automatic content locking, prevent apps from appearing in the app list, and toggle sensitive information visibility on the lock screen and in notifications.

The Pixel Launcher app’s quick support for installing apps in Private Space indicates the feature is getting substantial attention. Following extensive testing, the Private Space feature will officially launch with Android 15.

2024-04-04 15:04:48