Google has released Android 16, rolling out first to supported Pixel devices with more phone brands to follow later this year. This major update lays the foundation for Material 3 Expressive design and brings several features that enhance accessibility and ease of use.
Key updates include streamlined notifications, which provide real-time updates from compatible ride-share and food delivery apps, as well as force-grouping notifications to reduce information overload. Android 16 also introduces clearer calling with hearing devices, allowing users to switch between their phone’s microphone and the built-in front-facing mic for better audio input.
Security is strengthened with Advanced Protection, a robust device protection feature that protects against online attacks, harmful apps, and scam calls. Productivity has also been enhanced with desktop windowing on compatible tablets and devices, which enables multiple app windows to be opened, moved, and resized like a desktop.
Other features include HDR screenshots, adaptive refresh rate, identity check, and more. Future updates will bring even more productivity enhancements, including connecting tablets and phones to external displays for an expanded desktop experience. Users can explore all the Android 16 features at Android.com/16.
Source: https://blog.google/products/android/android-16