Google Introduces Android 16: Eligible Devices, Top Features And What To Expect

Google on Tuesday announced the launch of Android 16, the latest major version of Google’s mobile operating system. The latest version of Android will initially support Pixel devices, followed by more brands later this year.

“This is the earliest Android has launched a major release in the last few years,” Google said.

The new OS has been designed to support Google’s new Material 3 Expressive design, making Android more accessible to users. In a blog post, the US tech giant also shared the latest updates about what to expect from this launch.

• Streamlined and up-to-date notifications feature allows for live updates right on your lock screen. For instance, instead of requiring you to open your phone every few minutes for food deliveries, the new OS will share live updates to keep you informed in real-time. Google said that it is working with app partners to introduce this feature on Samsung’s Now Bar and OPPO and OnePlus’ Live Alerts soon.

• With the rollout of the new OS, users will also get to see a ‘group notification’ feature. This will put all notifications from a single app together.

•  Android 16 is also set to improve calling with hearing aids. The latest version will allow users to switch from the hearing aid mic to the phone mic for clearer sound. 

• Google will also introduce enhanced hearing device controls, allowing users to adjust volume directly from their Android phone.

• In its blog, Google has also announced enhanced security for Android phones through the ‘advanced protection’ feature. It will enable users to block scam calls or harmful apps with just one tap.

• Google has also collaborated with Samsung to enhance productivity for tablets. The new OS, Android 16, is designed to bring desktop windowing to tablets, allowing users to resize multiple app windows. Later this year, users will also be able to add custom keyboard shortcuts.

Other top features include HDR screenshots and adaptive refresh rates.