Introduction to Android 16
For years, Google released the latest version of Android in the third quarter of the year, usually toward the end of summer or the beginning of autumn. However, Android 16 was launched much earlier, and it’s already available for modern smartphones. This means that users can expect to get the update sooner rather than later. It’s always a good idea to accept official updates, as they provide the latest features and security updates that keep your phone safe.
What’s New in Android 16
Google I/O 2025, the Android I/O Show, and the developer’s beta gave us a sneak peek at the future of Android. Now that the update is officially available, we can dive into the new features that Google has packed into Android 16. These features might just convince you to hit that update button.
Material 3 Expressive
The new Material 3 Expressive UI update introduces a host of adaptive and responsive UI elements to the OS. This includes buttons that jiggle when you interact with them and app controls that are more colorful and dynamic. While it won’t change the functionality of anything, it gives Android 16 a fresh new look and feel. As more apps support the new UI, the difference between Android 16 and Android 15 will become even more apparent.
Adaptive Apps
Google has also introduced Adaptive Apps, which allows app developers to create apps that work seamlessly on a variety of screen sizes. This is especially useful now that we’re in the era of foldables. With Adaptive Apps, apps will look normal on a typical smartphone display but will automatically spread out over the width of the screen if you use them on a tablet or a foldable. This solves one of the largest pain points with larger displays, where mobile-only apps only function one way.
Live Update Notifications
Android 16 also brings improvements to notifications. One of the new features is live update notifications, which give you real-time updates on things like food delivery or package tracking. The other improvement is auto-grouping notifications, which stacks notifications from the same app into a single notification. This simplifies the notification shade and reduces clutter.
Desktop Windows
With Android 16, Google has introduced desktop windows to the experience. This feature will be used most often on larger screens like computers or tablets and brings Android one step closer to other operating systems that use windows. External display support has also been improved, making it easier to use your device on larger screens with peripherals like keyboards and mice.
More Security Protections
Security is always a top priority with major Android updates, and Android 16 is no different. Google has added new tools to help you stay safe and private, including Identity Check, which forces biometrics when accessing specific settings and features outside of trusted locations. There’s also Advanced Protection, a built-in security suite that can identify harmful apps, protect from online attacks, and block spam calls.
Better Accessibility
Accessibility has also gotten a boost in Android 16, especially for hearing aids. The improved support for hearing devices in the call app adds support for more hearing device brands and lets you use LE Audio devices more easily during calls. You can also use your Android 16 phone as a microphone input for your LEA hearing aids and adjust the ambient volume for LE Audio hearing devices.
Conclusion
Android 16 may not be the largest Android update we’ve ever seen, but it’s packed with plenty of neat features to check out. From the new Material 3 Expressive UI to improved accessibility and security protections, there’s something for everyone in this update. So, if you’re waiting to hit that update button, now’s the time to get excited about the fresh new features that Android 16 has to offer. With its improved performance, new features, and enhanced security, Android 16 is an update you won’t want to miss.
