Release & Device Availability
-
Launch Date: June 10, 2025 — one of Android’s earliest major releases in recent years .
-
Initial Roll-Out: Exclusively to Google Pixel 6 and newer devices, including the Fold and Tablet. Over-the-air (OTA) updates are now live .
-
Other Brands: Samsung, OnePlus, Xiaomi, and more will follow once their custom UI adaptations are ready.
Visual Overhaul: Material 3 Expressive
-
Android 16 introduces the Material 3 Expressive design, featuring vibrant animations, dynamic theming, refined typography, and blur effects.
-
Though these UI elements won't be fully active until the QPR1 update in September, groundwork is laid in the current build .
Key Features
1. Live Updates (Live Activities)
-
Real-time progress notifications (like food delivery or rideshare) appear as pill-shaped bubbles on the lock screen, notification shade, or status bar .
2. Advanced Protection
-
A robust security mode that activates features like scam detection, malicious app warnings, and protection against unsafe websites and calls.
3. App Compatibility & Productivity
-
Adaptive Apps Across Devices: Apps now automatically adjust for foldables, tablets, and larger screens.
-
Desktop-Style Windowing: A preview of Samsung DeX-like multitasking windows for tablets and foldables. Full desktop mode activation expected in QPR1.
4. Battery Health & Accessibility
-
A built-in Battery Health Indicator (on Pixel 8a and newer) monitors battery condition and usage longevity .
-
Native controls for Bluetooth LE hearing aids, including volume and microphone selection, directly from the device.
Additional Enhancements
-
Notification grouping to reduce clutter.
-
Massive OTP and unlock protection to hide sensitive notifications when devices are offline .
-
Support for APV codec and Vertical Text for advanced video and typography capabilities .
Release Strategy & Next Steps
-
Early rollout sets the stage for more frequent feature updates via QPRs instead of waiting for the next major release.
-
The Material 3 Expressive UI and complete desktop mode will debut in QPR1, likely in September.
