Google is preparing to launch the Android 16 update soon. This time, Android fans won’t have to wait long, as the tech giant has announced that a special episode of The Android Show will air on May 13, providing developers with a first look at the next-generation operating system. Traditionally, the tech giant would announce new details at the Google I/O event, but this time, it appears that Google has some exciting announcements in store for fans.
While no official information about the Android 16 update, here’s everything we know about the update including features and release timeline.
Android 16 release timeline
After the late rollout of Android 15 last year, Android 16 seems to be on schedule. The update has already passed key beta milestones and is said to launch by July 2025. As per the reports, Google has continued the dessert-themed naming tradition with Android Baklava, a layered pastry that is popular in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cultures.
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Android 16 features
The Android 16 may include a number of upgrades, such as live app updates in notifications, which would allow for real-time tracking of things like food delivery or navigation. It may also enable the sharing of medical data in FHIR format while maintaining privacy and focussing on new activity intensity metrics. Additionally, the photo picker has been improved to allow users to share specific media without giving them full access to their gallery.
The new update will also include significant refinements to adaptive refresh rate functionality, which will dynamically adjust based on content. The Quick Settings panel will also undergo a significant redesign, with improved organisation and customisation options. Regarding privacy, the applications will be able to block AI writing tools. Thea’s accessibility will also be improved.
Foldables and tablets will also benefit from improved app adaptability and continuity, with Apple allowing for smoother resizing and better transitions. The camera controls will also be more organised, with manual colour temperature adjustments, improved night mode detection, and expanded UltraHDR support.
Meanwhile, Google at its I/O 2025 is said to announce Gemini AI integration, developments in Android XR (Extended Reality), and smarter web service enhancements.
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Ashish Singh
Ashish Singh is the Chief Copy Editor at Digit. He's been wrangling tech jargon since 2020 (Times Internet, Jagran English '22). When not policing commas, he's likely fueling his gadget habit with coffee, strategising his next virtual race, or plotting a road trip to test the latest in-car tech. He speaks fluent Geek. View Full Profile
