Android 16 has just been launched, closely following the beta release of iOS 26. Google aims to garner interest by rolling out updates that are in sync with iOS capabilities.
Historically, Google has introduced new Android iterations between August and September, but the company revealed last month that this year it would debut earlier in June. That day has now come, with Android 16 being accessible on select Google Pixel devices. Other Android devices will obtain the update over the following months.
Prior to this week, we had already gleaned a considerable amount about Android 16. Google introduced its public beta in January, offering Android fans an initial glimpse of the new modifications. Now that it has exited the beta phase, here are some features incorporated in Android 16.
Live Updates and Streamlined Notifications
A highlight of Android 16 is the launch of Live Updates, Google’s answer to Apple’s Live Activities. This functionality enables app developers to craft notifications with live progress indicators, assisting users in monitoring time-sensitive tasks like Uber rides and food deliveries.
Nevertheless, Live Updates isn’t fully operational yet. While this week’s Android 16 rollout allows developers to begin creating and personalizing these notifications, the OS will not prioritize them or keep them displayed on the always-on screen until a subsequent update.
Notifications from individual apps will also be automatically consolidated, ensuring your phone’s display remains more organized. This should help mitigate an avalanche of information and alerts after a brief hiatus from your device.
Adaptive Apps That Expand Edge-to-Edge
Echoing Apple’s approach, Google’s new operating system underscores aesthetics, with Android 16 paving the way for its upcoming Material 3 Expressive update. This week’s OS update compels apps to stretch edge-to-edge, occupying users’ entire screens and adjusting to various screen dimensions and aspect ratios. Previously, developers had the option to disable this feature, but with Android 16, that possibility has been removed.
Predictive Back Activated by Default
In Android 16, predictive back becomes the standard setting, a shift from its previous status as optional for developers. First introduced in Android 13, this feature enables users to long-press the back button to preview the interface it will redirect them to. Such system animations should enhance the predictability of navigating your Android device.
Scam Protection Features
This week’s update to Android also introduces new security enhancements aimed at safeguarding users against scams. Android 16’s Activated Protection encompasses an array of security protocols designed to guard users against harmful attacks, whether from hazardous websites or fraudulent calls.
For example, Android 16’s Scam Detection AI notifies users if it identifies a suspicious conversation, focusing on prevalent scams like toll road, crypto, and tech support fraud. It also features in-call safeguards to prevent users from granting accessibility permissions that might allow others to take control of their device, as scammers frequently exploit this method. Activated Protection can be activated in your phone’s security and privacy settings.