Google has officially started rolling out Android 16 to supported Pixel devices
The new live updates feature shows real-time status updates right on your lock screen and notification panel.
To reduce notification overload, Android 16 introduces automatic notification grouping.
Google has officially started rolling out Android 16 to supported Pixel devices, with availability expanding to more smartphone brands later this year. This marks the earliest Android release in recent years, giving users quicker access to new features and improvements. “Android 16 lays the foundation for our new Material 3 Expressive design, with features that make Android more accessible and easy to use,” the tech giant explained. From real-time app updates to enhanced multitasking on tablets, the update brings significant improvements across the board.
Let’s take a look at what’s new.
Real-time updates and cleaner notifications
With Android 16, you’ll no longer need to open your delivery or ride-share app every few minutes. The new live updates feature shows real-time status updates—like when your food is arriving—right on your lock screen and notification panel. To reduce notification overload, Android 16 introduces automatic notification grouping. If a single app sends multiple alerts, they’ll be stacked together.
Also read: Google Pixel 9 Pro available with Rs 24,000 discount: How to grab this deal
Clearer phone calls for hearing aid users
For people using hearing aids, Android 16 brings major improvements. Many hearing aids use built-in microphones, which often don’t pick up your voice clearly. Now, users can switch to the phone’s mic during calls for better audio in noisy environments. Android 16 also adds native controls for hearing aids, letting users adjust settings like volume directly from their phones.
Stronger security with one tap
Android 16 introduces Advanced Protection, Google’s most secure mobile defense yet. With one tap, users can activate features that help protect you from scam calls, unsafe websites, harmful apps and more. Advanced Protection gives you greater peace of mind that you’re protected against the most sophisticated attacks, according to the tech giant.
Also read: Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold price drops by Rs 30,000: Check deal details here
Better multitasking on big screens
Tablet and foldable users will see big productivity boosts. Android 16 introduces desktop-style windowing, enabling multiple apps to be opened, moved, and resized—just like on a computer. More new tools include custom keyboard shortcuts and a taskbar overflow feature that makes finding apps easier when the taskbar is full.
Other key features of Android 16 include HDR screenshots, adaptive refresh rates and identity checks.
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Ayushi Jain
Tech news writer by day, BGMI player by night. Combining my passion for tech and gaming to bring you the latest in both worlds. View Full Profile
