Android 16 is here, and while it brings some exciting under-the-hood improvements, it’s not the game-changer many were hoping for. 
Google released the next version of its popular mobile OS earlier than usual this year, but for most users, it might feel like more of a refined update than a major leap forward.
Pixel phones are the first to get the latest Android version, as expected. Android 16 comes with enhanced APIs, improved connectivity tools, and bolstered security features. However, many of the new headline features, like the Material 3 Expressive design and desktop-style multitasking, aren’t fully available yet, leaving users with a more polished version of Android 15 instead.
Despite being marketed as a major update, early testers have described Android 16 as underwhelming. It looks and behaves almost identically to Android 15. For now, it feels like a more refined iteration rather than a bold departure from its predecessor. However, it sets the stage for future improvements that will likely become more apparent in the coming months.
Android 16 is certainly a significant update for Android users, but it might not be a showstopper for everyone. If you’re an iOS user, the excitement surrounding Android 16 might not have the same impact. Still, for Android enthusiasts, it’s a release to keep an eye on, even if it’s more of an incremental update.
But not all phones will receive Android 16. Some users, especially those with older Oppo devices, may be left behind. Oppo has not yet revealed a full list of compatible devices for the Android 16 (ColorOS 16) update, but based on past trends, several models are expected to miss out.
Notably, Oppo Find X5 series, Reno 10 series, and F21 Pro series are among those likely to stay on Android 15. These devices, once known for their standout performance and features, are now reaching the end of their software support window due to aging hardware and Oppo’s limited update cycle.
The Oppo Find X5 Pro, a device known for its premium build and Hasselblad camera system, might disappoint users if it doesn’t receive the Android 16 update. Similarly, the Reno 10 Pro+, with its stylish design and capable telephoto camera, might not see further major updates, even though it’s popular in the mid-range market.