Android 16 is already making waves while the previous update only arrives on our smartphones. Surprisingly, Google has revealed a release window for its new OS. Whatever happens, a lot of information is circulating, and we are going to take stock of the various rumors surrounding Android 16.
Android 16 is the next version of the OS for Google smartphones and tablets. The latter will include its share of new features and work on many devices. But while Android 15 is only being rolled out, the American firm has already confirmed the arrival of its new update. But that's not all, she also presented a release schedule in one of her latest press releases! Obviously, Google reveals very little in the latter. However, many rumors are circulating around the new features brought by the future interface. Here's everything you need to know about Android 16.
???? When is the Android 16 release date?
This will surprise some, but we already know the Android 16 release window! Indeed, Google presented its deployment schedule. And surprise, the update will arrive much sooner than expected. Generally, the firm begins to deploy its new OS around September/October as is the case for Android 15. However, for next year, the company has decided to offer its new interface from the second half of 2025. We can therefore assume that the latter will appear on our smartphones between April and June.
This disrupts many things in the habits of Google and its partners like Samsung. Indeed, future devices like the Google Pixel 10 will most certainly be directly equipped with Android 16. This will allow manufacturers to optimize their devices for the ecosystem. Finally, note that a second update is planned for the fourth quarter of 2025. This should bring some new features, but above all corrections for various bugs.
Last point, our colleagues d’Android Headlines even put forward a launch date: on June 3, 2025. However, they didn't give a source and Google hasn't confirmed anything. This is therefore information to be taken with a pinch of salt.
???? What would be the codename of Android 16?
According to a source from Android Open Source Project (AOSP), Google should break its habits by designating Android 16 under the name “Baklava”. Until now, if the company did use names of desserts or pastries, it followed an alphabetical order. As a reminder, the last two updates were respectively called “Vanilla Ice Cream” and “Upside Down Cake”. Once again, the firm has not confirmed anything at this level.
Moreover, according to 9to5Google, the company's employees continue to call Android 16 as “Android W”. To be continued. For those who are more curious, know that baklava is a very famous pastry in Greece, Turkey and other countries. It consists of filo pastry, nuts and sweet syrup. It's delicious, but very high in calories.
???? What could be Android 16 compatible smartphones?
The advancement of the Android 16 release date will shake up the regularsnot only from Google, but from brands like Samsung or Xiaomi. At the moment, we have absolutely no idea that these will be compatible smartphones. Likewise, we know nothing about future overlays offered by companies, such as the Korean giant's One UI. However, what we can be certain of is that as always, the next Google Pixel 10 will be the first to benefit from it. On the other hand, given the release window of the Galaxy S25, we can be sure to see them benefit from the next update. For the rest, we remain in the dark.
???? When will it be possible to discover the Android 16 beta?
As a reminder, a new Android update is accompanied by different beta phases. These will take place in the first quarter of 2025. Although no specific date has been revealed, Google has still provided some details. In an article dated October 31, 2024, the firm specifies “we will soon launch the preview for developers and the beta program”. For users, you will have to wait until the end of this period to discover Android 16. When the time comes, we will tell you the official date and how to install it on your phone.
⚙️ What are the potential new features brought by Android 16?
This is the big question, what will Android 16 bring us? We've barely started to take advantage of all the features offered by Android 15, when many rumors are circulating about the next update. In this part, we will take stock of the information at our disposal.
Improved security
First, Android Authority reports that the Advanced Protection Program will be improved. This function, available since 2017, is intended for business leaders, journalists or activists. It combines a physical security key and prevents the installation of unverified applications. In Android 16, this protection had to be optimized by offering the ability for application creators to add their own security layers. In summary, if this mode is activated, developers will be able to adjust the functioning of their software.
Further customization
For those who don't know, the “ Priority Mode » de Google is significantly similar to the “Concentration” mode offered by Apple. If this is already available on many of our smartphones, Android 16 should offer more options. It would be possible to create different profiles and activate several modes at once. For example, if you have saved a meeting time in your calendar, the phone will automatically switch to do not disturb.
Likewise, you could potentially create exclusions for certain contacts or applications. Regardless, this new update should offer even more customization possibilities.
Better brightness adjustment
According to Mishaal Rahman, brightness customization will be improved in Android 16. The system should take inspiration from the volume management offered by Android 15 with a percentage display. In the video below, we notice that the bar is thicker and seems more sensitive. It's nothing extraordinary, but it's a small development that would be welcome.
Notifications similar to Dynamic Island
As reported by Android Headlines, a “rich app bar” appears in Android 15 QPR1 Beta 3. If this option is not available with the current OS, we can imagine that Google plans its integration in Android 16. More concretely, it could allow notifications to appear inspired by the Dynamic Island of the latest iPhone. Each application would have its own text and color to help you see more clearly. If this comes to fruition, we can hope for improved ergonomics.
Better Gemini integration
It is more than likely to see Google improve the integration of AI (Gemini) with Android 16. As spotted during Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2, it would be possible to use the firm's service directly from the lock screen. Knowing that this functionality is not available at the moment, it is possible to see it appear with the next interface.
Activate Bluetooth and Wifi faster
Still according to Android Authority, it will be easier to access the Wifi and Bluetooth activation tiles. It must be said that since Android 12, handling has become a little more complex. However, with Android 16, Google is expected to offer the ability to activate these services with a single tap, and not with two presses as is currently the case. Once again, this would only be a slight improvement. However, on a daily basis, it could make our lives easier.
Limit battery charge
To guarantee a good lifespan for your smartphone battery, Google has implemented a system of limitation to 80% for its Pixels. This system, reserved for the company's phones, limits charging until about an hour before you plan to unplug your device. With Android 16, it might be possible to manually enable this feature from your phone. This feature was spotted in Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2.
