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Android 16 is already generating buzz, despite the fact that Android 15 only recently rolled out.
With the next version on the horizon, users are curious about its release date, the devices it will support, and the new features it will offer.
Here’s everything we know so far.
When will Android 16 be released?
Google has officially confirmed that Android 16 will arrive earlier than previous versions, aiming for a release in the future second quarter of 2025 (April to June). This shift aligns with Google’s strategy to better align Android OS releases with device launch schedules.
When Android 16 becomes available in June, the Pixel 10 series, expected to launch in mid-to-late 2025, will launch with the new operating system pre-installed. This timing would ensure that major Android launches are ready for upcoming devices from Google and other manufacturers.
Additionally, Google announced a “minor release” for Android in Q4 2025 (October to December), likely Android 16.1, which will focus on feature updates, optimizations, and bug fixes after the main Android 16 release.
Googling
While Google hasn’t given an exact release date for Android 16, the latest report from Android Headlines claims it will take place on June 3, 2025with the update coming to Pixel devices via wireless rollout on the same day.
If true, this strategy would contrast with previous years, when there was a delay between the release of the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) and OTA updates for Pixel devices.
As a reminder, here are the release dates of previous versions of the system:
- Android 15 – September 2024
- Android 14 – October 2023
- Android 13 – August 2022
- Android 12 – October 2021
- Android 11 – September 2020
- Android 10 – September 2019
While we wait for the full release of Android 16 next year, the first Developer Preview is now available to test with your apps.
Which devices will get Android 16?
As with any major Android update, a large number of Android phones from different manufacturers will receive the Android 16 update. Google’s own Pixel phones are always among the first to get new Android versions, so expect the Pixel 6 series, Pixel 7 series, Pixel 8 series, and future Pixel devices including the Pixel 10 series will get the update as soon as possible.
In addition, many current and future flagships from companies such as Samsung, OnePlus, Motorola, Xiaomi and others are expected to receive Android 16.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
However, it is important to note that manufacturers typically roll out updates based on device tiers and regional strategies. High-end devices are usually the first to receive updates, followed by mid-range and budget models.
If you’re not sure, there’s a handy Android 16 Update Tracker that keeps an eye on many of the most popular handsets.
What new features will we see in Android 16?
While we’re still a long way from the final version of Android 16, several hints and leaks give us an idea of what to expect. According to a report from Android Authority, Android 16 is codenamed ‘Baklava’, continuing Google’s dessert-themed naming tradition of its OS versions.
Redesigned notification and quick settings panels
Android Authority reports that one of the most significant changes in Android 16 will likely be a revamp of the notifications and quick settings panels. The current design of showing both in one panel, introduced with Android 12, could be replaced by a separate, dual-shade system.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
In this new design, notifications take up less screen space and accessing Quick Settings requires a two-finger swipe. This change may be controversial, but it provides more flexibility in organizing notifications and settings.
Advanced security mode
Android 16 is expected to improve its security features with a new advanced security mode (via Android Authority).
Originally introduced for Google Accounts, this mode can be expanded to provide app-level security tweaks. Apps can detect if this mode is enabled and apply additional security measures, such as additional authentication steps or screen locks.
Find My Device improvements
Improvements are also expected to Google’s Find My Device feature. Android 16 could build on Android 15’s theft detection features, providing more accurate location tracking and expanded options for securing lost or stolen devices.
AI-powered features
As AI becomes a bigger focus for mobile platforms, Android 16 will likely include more AI-powered tools. This includes improved privacy features, smarter notifications and more efficient battery and performance management.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
We may also see new AI-powered apps debut with Android 16, taking advantage of Google’s AI capabilities to improve the user experience.
Better desktop mode
Desktop mode is another area where Android 16 may see improvements. While this feature existed in experimental form, it’s possible that Android 16 will bring a more polished and functional version, allowing users to turn their phones into makeshift desktop environments when connected to external monitors.
Gemini camera improvements
With Android 16, expect further improvements to camera systems across devices, especially with the Gemini camera framework.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Google could focus on improving computational photography, which could mean better low-light performance, faster processing times, and more powerful editing tools within the native camera app.
Overhaul of the system UI
Another exciting prospect is the ongoing rework of the system interface, known internally as ‘Flexiglass’ (via Android Authority). This redesign appears to aim to make the Android system more modular, separating core components into individual ‘scenes’, which could result in improved performance and stability.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Although the official release of Android 16 is still months away, the features and improvements it promises are already generating excitement. We’ll keep an eye on Google’s announcements as we get closer to mid-2025 for more official details.
In the meantime, check out our list of the best Android phones that are sure to get the update to Android 16. If you can’t wait to hear what Google has in store for us, be sure to check out our list of 10 favorite new Android 15 features and which phones are likely to get the Android 15 update.