Android 16: A Comprehensive Overview
- Google’s latest major version of the Android operating system for smartphones and tablets
- Officially launching on 10 June, starting with Pixel devices
- Significant changes revealed, including the new Material 3 Expressive user interface design
Google introduces a new version of Android every year, and in 2025, it’s Android 16’s turn.
The Pixel-maker unveiled all the details at a dedicated event before Google I/O 2025 and decided to release Android 16 earlier than usual.
Here’s everything you need to know, including whether and when your phone or tablet will receive the Android 16 upgrade.
Discover more about how Android 16 will transform your device.
When is the Release Date for Android 16?
Summary
- Android 16 officially announced on 13 May, a week before the I/O conference
- Confirmed release date of 10 June
Google officially announced Android 16 at ‘The Android Show: I/O Edition’ event on 13 May. If you missed it, you can catch the full event replay.
Following that, and in conjunction with Apple’s developer conference, WWDC, Google confirmed that Android 16 will be fully available today, 10 June.
A tweet by the Android Developers account reads, “It’s almost time for the Android 16 final release! See you back here tomorrow” with a winky emoji. The tweet was posted at 2:30 am UK time, while it was still 9 June at Google’s HQ in California.
Like any software update, it won’t be immediately available for all compatible devices to download. The rollout will commence gradually, beginning with Pixel devices, followed by third-party manufacturers such as Samsung, Motorola, OnePlus, Honor, and others in the coming months as they become ready.
The Pixel 10 series is expected to be the first set of phones to ship with Android 16 pre-installed.
Find out how to download the Android 16 beta now
Here are the release dates for the previous versions of the system:
- Android 15 – September 2024
- Android 14 – October 2023
- Android 13 – August 2022
- Android 12 – October 2021
- Android 11 – September 2020
- Android 10 – September 2019
Sources: Google
Which Phones Will Receive Android 16?
Summary
- All phones currently supported by Android 15 updates should receive Android 16
- Rollout timeline depends on specific manufacturers and device age
As with every major Android update, a wide range of Android phones and other devices like tablets from various manufacturers will receive the Android 16 update.
Google’s Pixel phones are typically among the first to receive new Android versions, so anticipate the Pixel 6 series, Pixel 7 series, Pixel 8 series, Pixel 9 series, and future Pixel devices, including the Pixel 10 series, to receive the update promptly.
Moreover, many current and upcoming Android flagship phones from companies like Samsung, OnePlus, Motorola, Xiaomi, and others are expected to get Android 16.
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Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
It’s worth noting that manufacturers typically release updates based on device tiers and regional strategies. High-end devices usually receive updates first, followed by mid-range and budget models.
If you’re unsure, here is a list of all the devices expected to receive the Android 16 update.
Sources: Android Update Tracker
What New Features Can We Expect in Android 16?
Summary
- New ‘Material 3 Expressive’ user interface unveiled
- Even more extensive customization options
- Key system apps redesigned
Confirmed Features
Google has confirmed that all of the following features will be available in Android 16.
New ‘Material 3 Expressive’ Design
Material 3 Expressive is the most significant redesign of the Android design in years. It aims to provide a “more fluid, personal, and glanceable” experience on your Android phone or tablet.
One of the key improvements is the introduction of “more natural, springy animations,” making the devices feel more human and less like inanimate pieces of technology. This is achieved visually and through haptic feedback, offering a subtle, lifelike vibration.
For instance, when dismissing a notification, your phone will respond to the movement of your finger. Other notifications and elements will react as if they are affected by the vibration. The notification shade is slightly blurred, allowing you to see the app displayed beneath it.
![\"Android](\"https://b2c-contenthub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Android-16-Material-3-Expressive.png\")
As shown above, there is also a new range of themes, fonts, and other responsive components, providing even more customization options.
Redesigned System Apps
Many of Google’s popular apps are receiving a redesign, including Health Connect, Gmail, and Google Photos, all of which are showcased below.
![\"Android](\"https://b2c-contenthub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/android-16-2-1.png?w=1200\")
New Quick Settings Menu
Apps aren’t the only things receiving a facelift. The Quick Settings panel, accessible by swiping down from the top of the screen, also sports a new look and feel.
![\"Android](\"https://b2c-contenthub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/android-16-3.png?w=1200\")
In addition to the aesthetics, Google promises that you will be able to “squeeze in more of your favorite actions.” In other words, more of the quick settings you use frequently will be available with a single tap.
Both the volume slider and full control panel are set to undergo redesigns as well.
Live Updates
Google is introducing its version of Apple’s ‘Live Activities’ to Android 16.
Known as ‘Live Updates,’ it integrates updates into the notification shade, making it easy to stay informed without being distracted by other notifications.
Regarding supported apps, Uber Eats is included, along with “top delivery, rideshare, and navigation apps.”
Desktop Mode
Android 16 will also feature a desktop mode, allowing you to connect your phone to an external display for a desktop-like experience.
Sound familiar? It appears
