Google has officially released the first stable version of Android 16, making it available for Pixel devices. This update is rolling out to the Pixel 6 series and newer devices, as well as the Pixel Tablet. If you own any of the following, you can expect to receive the Android 16 stable update via OTA:
- Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a
- Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a
- Pixel Fold
- Pixel Tablet
- Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a
- Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Pixel 9a
While Android 16 brings several exciting features, there are still some major changes yet to be included. Two big features-Material 3 Expressive and Desktop Mode-will not be available in this first stable release but are expected to arrive later on.
Android 16 also comes with a new beta aimed at developers called the Android 16 QPR 2. This beta introduces the Desktop Mode, which allows users to extend their phone’s display to an external monitor via DisplayPort. Once connected, multiple apps can be opened in resizable windows, and a taskbar will show active apps. For users with devices like the Pixel Tablet, the desktop session will span across both the tablet and the external display, allowing items to be dragged between the two screens.
One of the key features of Android 16 is the improved support for adaptive apps. This ensures that apps behave and scale correctly regardless of your device’s screen size, orientation, or form factor, which will be particularly beneficial for foldable devices.
Another major update involves notifications. Android 16 introduces a system to group notifications from the same app to reduce clutter. The update also brings dynamic notifications with Live Updates, which will display information like navigation, ride-hailing, and food delivery directly on the lock screen and system status area.
For users with hearing aids, Android 16 includes a new native control toggle. This feature offers quick access to battery status, presets, microphone selection, and volume control. Users can also switch to their phone’s microphone for improved voice clarity in noisy environments.
Android 16 introduces Advanced Protection, which helps shield users’ personal data from online threats such as malicious apps, unsafe websites, and scam calls. In addition, tablets will see a new desktop windowing option, allowing multiple app windows to be resized and moved around like on a desktop. This feature will be available later this year on compatible tablets.
Other new features in Android 16 stable include custom keyboard shortcuts, HDR screenshots, adaptive refresh rate controls, and identity check to enhance security.