Google is ready to start the one-by-one launch of the newest mobile operating system, Android 16, on Wednesday, 11 June. The new update will be available to some selected Pixel devices as an over-the-air software update. In the upcoming weeks, the broader availability is anticipated. Google is launching the stable version of Android than previous versions, which is a new version to improve the release cycle.
Even though the update marks the official release of Android 16, most attractive features, like a refined interface and sophisticated battery health tools, will not be included in the initial version and are expected to join later through the Android 16 QPR1 update. Hence, this blog will explore the supporting devices, time plans, and features complementing Android 16.
Phased Launch and Time Period
Android Developers officially announced the release on the social media account X. Google has confirmed the 11 June release date. However, the launch time has yet to be finalised. Similar to past Android releases, the update is anticipated to reach users in phases based on region and device eligibility because of global time zone differences.
Which Devices Will Android 16 Support?
The Android 16 version will be launched to support Pixel smartphones. The devices owned by Google will be the first recipients of the update. At the same time, other brands will get the update later after integrating their different user interfaces or looks. Some of the confirmed devices supporting the update include:
Google Pixel
- Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a
- Pixel 7, 7 Pro
- Pixel 8, 8 Pro, 8a
- Pixel Fold, Pixel Tablet
- Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold
- Pixel 9a
Samsung
- S Series: Galaxy S22, S23, S24, S25
- Z Series: Fold 4/5/6, Flip 4/5/6
- A Series: A24–A26, A34–A36, A54–A56, A73
- M Series: M34–M36, M54–M56
- F Series: F34, F54, F55
Xiaomi
- Xiaomi 13, 14, 15
- Redmi 12, 13
- Redmi Note 13, 14
- Redmi K70
OnePlus
- OnePlus 11, 12, 13
- Nord 3, Nord CE 4, Nord CE 4 Lite
Motorola
- Edge 40, 50, 60
- Razr 50, 60
- G45, G85
Expected Features of Android 16
Although the initial update may not include sweeping changes, potential improvements are anticipated in the upcoming months with the QPR1 update. One of the significant features could be Material 3 Expressive interface, which is a redefined take on the design language of Google. The new update will likely feature adaptive colours, better animations and improved haptic feedback, allowing a more intuitive and responsive user experience.
It is also expected to see a new look for Quick Settings. The brightness slider may be reframed with a rectangular shape and tiles may be resized and divided into categories. A new reset option could be added in the new update for quick toggling.
Live Activities is a new feature included in the update for real-time updates, like tracking sports scores or deliveries. It is expected to be included in the lock screen, status bar, and notification bar.
Let’s discuss the features in more detail.
Streamlined and Updated Notifications
Counting on your food to be delivered to your doorstep? No need to open your delivery app every minute, live updates are here to inform you in real-time. These live updates are starting with compatible ride-share and food delivery applications. Google, the tech giant, is collaborating with these applications to bring this capability to the Android ecosystem, including Oppo, OnePlus, and Samsung.
Google is also integrating force-grouping notifications, which can be accessed through a single app to reduce the information burden.
Easy Calling with Hearing Devices
Android 16 offers significant improvements for hearing aid users. Presently, LE audio hearing devices use their built-in front-facing mics for audio listening. These mics are made to track the sound of the person the users are talking to, not the sound of the user’s voice. Now, users can switch to using a microphone for a better and clearer voice in noisy situations.
Google is also launching native control for hearing devices in Android 16 for easy access and a consistent experience. This means users can control things like volume on the hearing devices right from their Android phones.
Robust Security in a Single Tap
Android 16 enables users to turn on Advanced Protection, which is the strongest mobile device protection from Google. It allows a wide range of device security features that safeguard users from cyberattacks, harmful applications, unreliable websites, scam calls, and more. Advanced Protection offers you better protection, whether you are a public figure or looking for better security.
Improved Productivity for Tablets
Samsung DeX has helped to improve productivity on phones, foldables, and tablets over the years. In Android 16, Google collaborated with Samsung to develop desktop windowing, a novel approach to interact with apps and content on large-screen devices. Additionally, the users can open, move, and resize several app windows ins a single screen, like a desktop. This eases the work across applications on devices.
Future Outlooks
Google is also looking to introduce custom keyboard shortcuts this year to enable users to create their own combination of hotkeys and taskbar overflow. This offers a simple, visual way for users to find the app that they want to be on the taskbar. Future updates are also expected to bring more productivity improvements to Android. This allows users to connect tablets and mobile phones to an external display for a better desktop experience.
Also, there are several features integrated with Android 16. For example, users can explore the features HDR screenshots, adaptive refresh rate, identity check, and so on. Additionally, updates will support Android and Pixel devices. Afterwards, additional Material 3 Expressive design updates will be coming to Android 16 and Wear OS 6 on Poxel devices. So, stay tuned to get more updates and information on the launch of Android 16 and later updates.
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