The first Developer Preview of Android 16 is rolling out right now

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 that will support it, and the new features it will bring.

Here’s everything we know so far.

When will Android 16 be released?

Google has officially confirmed that Android 16 will launch earlier than previous versions, aiming for a release in the second quarter of 2025 (April to June). This shift aligns with Google’s strategy to better match Android OS releases with device launch schedules.

If Android 16 is available by June, the Pixel 10 series, expected in mid to late 2025, will launch with the new OS 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 the fourth quarter of 2025 (October to December), likely to be Android 16.1, which will focus on feature updates, optimisations, and bug fixes following the main Android 16 release.

While Google has not given an exact release date for Android 16, the latest report from Android Headlines claims it will take place on 3 June 2025, with the update becoming available to Pixel devices via over-the-air rollout on the same day.

If true, this strategy would contrast with previous years, where there was a delay between the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) release and the 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 available now to test with your apps.

Which devices will get Android 16?

As with every major Android update, a wide range 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, to get the update as soon as is possible.

In addition, many current and future flagships from companies such as Samsung, OnePlus, Motorola, Xiaomi and others are expected to receive Android 16.

It’s important to note, however, that manufacturers typically roll out updates based on device tiers and regional strategies. High-end devices usually receive updates first, followed by mid-range and budget models.

If you’re unsure, there’s a useful Android 16 Update Tracker which monitors many of the most popular handsets.

What new features will we see in Android 16?

While we’re still far from the final version of Android 16, several hints and leaks give us a glimpse 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 notification and Quick Settings panels. The current design in which both are shown in one panel, introduced with Android 12, might be replaced by a separated, dual-shade system.

In this new design, notifications will take up less screen space, and accessing Quick Settings will require a two-finger swipe. This change could be controversial, but it allows for more flexibility in organising notifications and settings.

Advanced Protection Mode

Android 16 is expected to enhance its security features with a new Advanced Protection Mode (via Android Authority).

This mode, originally introduced for Google accounts, might be expanded to offer app-level security customisation. Apps will be able to detect if this mode is enabled and apply additional security measures, such as extra authentication steps or screen locks.

Find My Device enhancements

Improvements to Google’s Find My Device feature are also anticipated. Android 16 could build on Android 15’s theft detection features, offering more accurate location tracking and expanded options for securing lost or stolen devices.

AI-driven features

As AI becomes a larger focus for mobile platforms, Android 16 is likely to include more AI-powered tools. These could include enhanced privacy features, smarter notifications, and more efficient battery and performance management.

We might also see new AI-powered apps debut with Android 16, leveraging Google’s AI capabilities to improve user experience.

Better desktop mode

Desktop mode is another area in which Android 16 might see improvements. While this feature has existed in experimental form, it’s possible that Android 16 will offer a more polished and functional version, allowing users to turn their phones into makeshift desktop environments when connected to external monitors.

Gemini camera enhancements

With Android 16, expect further enhancements to camera systems across devices, especially with the Gemini camera framework.

Google may 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.

System UI overhaul

Another exciting prospect is the ongoing rework of the System UI, known internally as ‘Flexiglass’ (via Android Authority). This redesign seems to aim to make the Android system more modular, separating core components into individual ‘scenes,’ which could result in improved performance and stability.

While 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 our list of the best Android phones that will definitely get the update to Android 16. If you can’t wait to hear what Google has in store for us, be sure to also check out our list of 10 favourite new Android 15 features, and which phones are likely to get the Android 15 update.