Android 16 is here for testers! Google rolled out the first beta of its next-generation operating system last Thursday (23), currently available exclusively for Pixel devices. While this trial version is primarily aimed at developers, some of the new features of “Robozinho” are already noticeable.
In a test conducted by Us, Android 16 Beta 1 has been nicknamed “Baklava” (a Turkish puff pastry dessert) and takes up 2.44 GB of storage on the Google Pixel 6 Pro. The installation package also comes bundled with the January 2025 Android security patch.
New Android 16 Features
See some new features in the Beta version:
Apps adapted to larger screens
With Android 16, apps are becoming more adaptable to larger screens, including tablets and foldables. Unlike before, when apps would often remain centered in portrait mode with blank spaces on the sides, the new native API allows them to make better use of the available screen real estate.
This improvement ensures apps can dynamically adjust to fill most of the interface space, offering users a more seamless and immersive experience.
Live updates
Android is taking cues from iOS with its new native notifications for ongoing activities. While Google hasn’t shared screenshots of this feature in action, it explained that the new module will display a progress bar to track delivery updates, driver wait times, and other real-time scenarios.
Extensions for Gemini
Android 16 will include Gemini extensions to enhance integration with Google AI, making the system smarter and more intuitive. In its announcement, Google highlighted the feature’s availability on the newly launched Galaxy S25, which debuted this Wednesday (22).
High-quality footage
Android 16 supports the Advanced Professional Video (APV) codec for high-quality filming. This feature is aimed at professionals who use their smartphones to capture videos, offering enhanced video recording capabilities.
Which devices support Android 16 Beta?
The Beta is available for the following devices in the Google Pixel line:
- Pixel 6
- Pixel 6 Pro
- Pixel 6a
- Pixel 7
- Pixel 7 Pro
- Pixel 7a
- Pixel Tablet
- Pixel Fold
- Pixel 8
- Pixel 8 Pro
- Pixel 8a
- Pixel 9
- Pixel 9 Pro XL
- Pixel 9 Pro
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold
When will Android 16 be released?
Google has yet to announce an official release date for Android 16, but according to the developer timeline, the public release is expected sometime in May 2025. Beta versions will be available between January and March this year, with March and April dedicated to platform stabilization.
A rumor, which Google has not officially confirmed, suggests that the stable version could drop on June 3rd. It’s worth noting that Google hosts its annual I/O conference in May, so we can likely expect some Android news during that event.
Typically, Android 16 will first be released for Pixel devices, with Google also launching the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) simultaneously. This allows manufacturers, like Samsung, to adapt their interfaces—such as One UI—to the new system.
What about Android 15?
The new Beta has been released, but many users still don’t have access to Android 15, the current stable version of the system. The update launched in October 2024 for Pixel devices, but its distribution by other manufacturers has been limited.
Samsung started rolling out Android 15 this week with the launch of One UI 7 for the new Galaxy S25 series. The update is expected to reach more devices in the coming months. Meanwhile, Motorola was among the first to adopt the new Android version, releasing it for select models in December last year.
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