Android 15 has been out for a while, but we’re still discovering new features – like a screensaver that lets you control your smart home without even unlocking your phone.
The Home Controls feature turns your phone into a smart home dashboard when the phone is docked – and it’s not just exclusive to Google’s platforms either.
Home Controls works with the Google Home app and on Pixel phones, as well as at least one other smart home app, Home Assistant, and on any phone with an Android 15-based operating system.
You can activate the Home Controls screensaver by going to the Settings app, navigating to the ‘Display & Touch’ tab and clicking on the Screensaver tab within it.
Once Home Controls is activated, connecting the phone to a dock or charger will bring up a screen full of Smart Home options.
If Android Authority According to reports, Google added the Home Controls screensaver to the third Android 15 beta in June.
However, Android 15 is only just starting to make its way to flagship devices, with Google’s own Pixel phones set to receive an Android 15-based OS update on October 15.
The report adds that the Home Controls screensaver works through the Android SystemUI app and embeds activity from Google Home or the third-party Home Assistant app.
Those concerned about battery health when leaving their phone plugged into a charger for extended periods of time will be happy to hear that Android 15 offers an 80% charge limit on Pixel phones. We hope this feature will appear on other platforms as well.
But for now, we’re happy to see these useful smart home options becoming available to all Android 15 users.
When will my phone get Android 15?
When your specific Android phone will get Android 15 features will depend on the phone manufacturer’s plans.
Phone makers using Android tend to add a cosmetic skin with some exclusive features, known as a ‘wrapper’, sometimes styled as a standalone operating system.
As mentioned, Pixel phones will get Android 15 later this month, just like other manufacturers Motorola And Nothing have announced implementation plans or started beta testing.
Stay tuned to our Android coverage for the latest updates on when Android 15 is coming to your phone.
