Google released the first stable version of Android 16 on Tuesday, began with the supported pixel devices. The company says it is the oldest release of a major Android operating system (OS) update in the last few years and brings many new features. This adds live updates to real -time information and increases safety measures by courtesy of advanced security. The company says that Future Android 16 update will also take a new design language dubbed material 3 expressiv, as well as a desktop -like experience on large -screen tablets and other devices.
Android 16 compatible model list
Google says Android 16 rollouts begin with pixel devices. All qualified handsets enrolled in Android Beta for Pixel Program will be introduced as over-the-air (OTA) update to the new OS repetition. It also includes:
- Google Pixel 9 Series
- Google Pixel 9A
- Google Pixel 8 Series
- Google Pixel Tablet
- Google pixel fold
- Google Pixel 7 Series
- Google Pixel 6 Series
On Pixel devices, users can check by checking for Android 16 updates Settings> System> Software Update> System Update> Updates. The OS will be released by more brands for its respective devices in the coming months, according to the company.
Android 16 features
Google highlighted the major features of Android 16 in a blog post. Update brings a new feature called forced notification auto-grouping. This is a feature that according to the company, combines groups simultaneously to prevent multiple personal information from the same app.
There are also live updates that act similar to live activities on iOS. This feature provides real-time for ride-sharing and food delivery apps on the lock screen. Google says it is working to bring this capacity to Samsung’s Now Bar, as well as live alert on Oppo and OnePlus smartphone.
New features in Android 16
Photo Credit: Google
Meanwhile, advanced protection claims claims to protect users from harmful attacks, malicious websites, scam calls and online attacks. According to Google, it acts as a single control point for safety settings in apps such as Google Chrome, Message, Phone besides support for third-party apps in the future.
The latest OS update of Google also promises a simple experience in various brands of hearing aid equipment. Users can control them from their devices, which have built-in-front-festing mics for audio input, or switch to the phone as input with le audio hearing devices for better call quality.
Update brings a new desktop windowing experience for large screen devices
Photo Credit: Google
The company connects that future Android 16 updates will also bring desktop winding by constructing on the capabilities of Samsung Dex. It has been developed in collaboration with Samsung and allows users to manage apps and materials on large screen devices. Users will be able to take advantage of single app or split-screen mode. It acts like a desktop, which enables you to open, move or shape several apps in the same screen, making it easier to work in apps. The desktop window on Android 16 will be rolled out for more compatible equipment later this year.
Meanwhile, in May 2025, Google shows new content 3 expressive designs showing Google in I/O also making their way for the devices that run Android 16 later this year. The new design will also be part of Android 16 QPR1 stable release, which has been asked to roll out next month.
