Are you still waiting to receive the Android 15 update on your smartphone? Well, your phone is already outdated as Google has introduced Android 16. Currently in the developer preview stage, Android 16 brings many exciting features. Whether you’re eager to explore these features or simply want to know when Android 16 is coming to your device, this article covers everything you need to know.
Android 16 Update Features
1. Support for Adaptive Refresh Rate
One of the standout features in Android 16 is the support for adaptive refresh rate. With advancements in smartphone displays, such as LTPO and 185Hz refresh rates, this feature improves battery efficiency and screen smoothness. Developers can now utilize a new API for adaptive refresh rates, offering a smoother scrolling experience in apps.
2. Redesigned Volume Control
Android 16 introduces a redesigned volume control interface. The volume slider now has rectangular edges, a thinner handle, and occupies less space. The taller design ensures it’s easier to access without cluttering the screen.
3. Split Quick Settings
Android 16 brings split quick settings, a feature already present in other Android skins like HyperOS, OxygenOS, and One UI 7. Notifications and quick settings are now separated. Swiping down once shows notifications, while a two-finger swipe reveals the quick settings menu.
4. Improved Notifications
The Android 16 update introduces multiple enhancements to notifications:
- Bundled Notifications: Groups multiple notifications for better management.
- Compact Heads-Up: Displays new notifications in a condensed layout.
- Notification Cooldown: Prevents spamming from a single app by limiting continuous notifications.
- Bubble Notifications: Stash notifications to the side of the screen after reading them.
5. Floating Bubbles for Apps
Building on the Bubble Notifications feature introduced in Android 11, Android 16 lets users run any app inside a floating bubble. This feature can be activated via the context menu by long-pressing the app icon.
6. Lockscreen Widgets and Changes
Lockscreen widgets make a comeback in Android 16. Users can add and customize widgets on their lock screens, though this feature is limited to smartphones. Other changes include:
- Notifications appearing as icons on the lock screen.
- A dedicated button to access Gemini directly from the lock screen.
7. Dynamic Island for Android
Borrowing from iOS’ Live Activities, Android 16 introduces Rich Ongoing Notifications. This feature displays ongoing notifications in a slim pill at the status bar, allowing users to track tasks like food deliveries or rides without opening the app.
8. Other Notable Changes
- Predictive back gestures.
- Enhanced privacy sandbox.
- Embedded photo picker.
- Health record integration in Health Connect.
- Desktop mode for tablets.
- Redesigned settings menu.
- “Even dimmer” brightness option.
- Auracast audio sharing.
- Battery charging limit to 80% on Pixel devices.
- Improved lock screen customization.
- Redesigned Pixel wallpaper app.
- Advanced screen recording.
Android 16 Update Eligible Devices
Currently, Android 16 is in the Developer Preview stage and available only for Pixel devices. Below is the list of eligible devices:
- Google Pixel 6a
- Google Pixel 6
- Google Pixel 6 Pro
- Google Pixel 7a
- Google Pixel 7
- Google Pixel 7 Pro
- Google Pixel Fold
- Google Pixel Tablet
- Google Pixel 8a
- Google Pixel 8
- Google Pixel 8 Pro
- Google Pixel 9
- Google Pixel 9 Pro
- Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
- Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold
Android 16 Update Expected Release Timeline
The Android 16 update is set to launch in Q2 2025, with a likely release date in May 2025. Google is expected to showcase Android 16’s features at Google I/O 2025. Additionally, a minor SDK release (Android 16.1) is expected in Q4 2025, introducing more features and APIs.
For other manufacturers like OnePlus, Vivo, and Samsung, Android 16 updates are anticipated shortly after the official launch, as these brands are known for their quick update rollouts.
Summing It Up: Android 16—The Next Major Evolution
Android 16promises to be a game-changing update with significant overhauls. From redesigned notifications and split quick settings to improved customization and multitasking features, the update sets a new standard for Android.
FAQs
Which phone has Android 16?
Currently, only Google Pixel 6 series and above are eligible for the Android 16 update.
Will my phone receive Android 16?
If your phone is less than 1-2 years old, it’s likely to receive Android 16. Check your device’s update policy to confirm.
What is the Android 16 release date?
Android 16 is expected to release in May 2025.
