Google has released Android 16, the first significant software update since Android 15 in October 2024. The upgrade will be handed out first to Pixel smartphones, per Google’s prior policy of introducing a new operating system and phone portfolio concurrently. The announcement comes one day after Apple unveiled iOS 26 at WWDC25.
The blog post said, “Today, we’re bringing you Android 16, rolling out first to supported Pixel devices with more phone brands to come later this year. This is the earliest Android has launched a major release in the last few years, which ensures you get the latest updates as soon as possible on your devices.”
Android 16 now features real-time live notifications on the lock screen, according to Google’s Material 3 Expressive design language. Ride-sharing and food delivery applications now offer live updates, allowing customers to be informed in real time. This functionality is being pushed out in Samsung’s Now Bar, as well as OPPO and OnePlus’ Live Alert. Furthermore, notifications from a single app are force-grouped to avoid information overload while keeping alerts organised and tight.
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Android 16 now supports Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) audio devices, allowing users to utilise them instead of their phone’s microphone for higher call quality. Android 16 includes substantial enhancements for hearing aid users. Current LE devices have built-in front-facing microphones for audio input, but users may now utilise their phone’s microphone to make crisper calls in crowded places. Android 16 also includes native control for hearing devices, allowing users to regulate capacity directly from their Android phone, resulting in a more consistent and user-friendly experience.
Android 16 is equipped with Advanced Protection 2, which is believed to be Google’s most powerful mobile device protection, with extensive security measures against internet threats, malicious applications, hazardous websites, and scam calls. This function is appropriate for both public personalities and people who value security, providing peace of mind against sophisticated attacks.
Samsung DeX and Android have teamed to bring desktop windowing, a new way to engage with apps and content on large-screen devices. This feature lets users to launch, move, and resize multiple app windows on a single screen, similar to a desktop. Desktop windowing in Android 16 will be available for compatible devices later this year. Additionally, configurable keyboard shortcuts and taskbar overflow will be available later this year. Future upgrades will also improve productivity by allowing tablets and phones to connect to external displays for a more complete desktop experience. Developers may start testing these functionalities today.
