Android 15 is set to debut on Pixel smartphones later this year, revealing some interesting features via developer preview and public beta releases. Among the features is a potential new tool designed to help users identify and contain malicious apps on their devices.

Features launching in Android 15 Beta:

The latest beta of Android 15 reveals a forward-looking feature that could change the security of apps on the platform. According to Android Authority, the feature allows system apps like Google Play Services or Play Store to isolate and restrict detected apps, similar to antivirus programs on Windows.

Features and implementation:

The proposed feature involves quarantining applications, severely limiting their functionality once they are identified as potential threats. While the code for this feature exists in Android 15, it’s still dormant, waiting to be activated. If implemented, quarantined apps would face restrictions such as suppressing notifications, hiding windows, stopping activities, and preventing the device from ringing.

Restricted access and potential limitations:

The envisaged “QUARANTINE_APPS” permission would be granted exclusively to apps signed by Google certificates, effectively limiting quarantine capabilities to the Play Store or Google Play Services. It’s worth noting that despite isolation, apps are still visible in the app drawer, albeit grey. Clicking on these icons will notify the user that they are unavailable and provide recovery options.

Implementation uncertainty:

While the feature was initially observed in developer builds of Android 14 in 2022, its fate in Android 15 remains uncertain. If Google goes ahead with the integration, it’s likely that only designated Google entities will be able to exercise the authority to quarantine apps. Such a tool can be useful when Google’s Play Protect malware scanner flags suspicious app behavior.

As Android 15-inch officially launches closer, it could include a feature designed to isolate and eliminate malicious apps, underscoring Google’s ongoing commitment to enhancing user security. While the specifics of its implementation and widespread availability remain to be seen, innovations like these signal a proactive approach to protecting the Android ecosystem.