
The previously early-access Android 16 has now been officially released, with the update initially rolling out to Pixel devices and a select group of partner brands. Broader availability for additional manufacturers will follow in due course. Google has also announced that several upcoming devices set to launch in the coming months will come preinstalled with the Android 16 operating system.
Android 16 introduces the all-new “Material Design 3 Expressive” design language and further enhances the integration of Gemini AI technology. In addition, it revamps real-time notification presentation—allowing users to conveniently track updates such as Uber ride arrival progress or estimated delivery times from Uber Eats, thereby reducing the need to frequently open apps. Notifications from the same app will now be intelligently grouped for easier review.
The update also officially incorporates Auracast broadcast audio functionality, developed in collaboration with the Bluetooth Special Interest Group. It supports low-energy Bluetooth hearing aids and allows users to adjust audio levels directly via native Android 16 controls. The phone’s microphone can also be used to amplify and clarify ambient sound for improved hearing.
In terms of camera capabilities, Android 16 adds automatic night scene detection, hybrid auto-exposure, and more precise white balance adjustments. It also updates Ultra HDR rendering, introduces HEIC image encoding support, and integrates the Advanced Professional Video (APV) codec, enabling higher-quality video playback and more efficient image storage through reduced bitrates.
Security features remain conveniently consolidated in a single location, allowing users to intuitively safeguard themselves from online threats, malicious apps, unsafe websites, scam calls, and more.
Additional upgrades include enhanced RCS group messaging with custom icons and mute options, while Google Photos gains an AI-powered photo editor. Users can also create new sticker combinations via Emoji Kitchen, and Wear OS smartwatches now support fare payments for public transit without requiring the launch of a separate app.
Though a redesigned desktop experience was showcased during Google I/O 2025 and is currently available in the Android 16 QPR 3 Beta 2 preview, the feature is expected to be officially released later this year.
Moreover, the newly released Pixel Drop update introduces the “Pixel VIP” contacts widget, enabling users to view key information—such as recent calls, messages (including WhatsApp), real-time location sharing, and even birthdays—at a glance directly from the home screen. Calls and messages from VIP contacts will bypass Do Not Disturb mode to ensure they’re never missed.
All sensitive data, including call and message histories, remains stored solely on your device, safeguarding your privacy. To unlock the full potential of the widget, it is recommended that users add detailed information for each VIP contact, such as birthday, email address, and home address.
Other notable enhancements include the addition of real-time search to the Magnifier tool, a voice recorder upgrade that filters out background noise to isolate speech, and extended compatibility for AI-powered photo editing and Bluetooth-connected hearing aids across more Pixel devices.
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