Google Releases Android 16 Months Earlier Than Expected. Here's How You Can Download It

With more than a decade of experience, Nelson covers Apple and Google and writes about iPhone and Android features, privacy and security settings, and more.

A day after Apple announced iOS 26 at WWDC 25, Google on Tuesday launched one of its most ambitious updates yet, Android 16.

Rolling out first to Pixel 6 and later Pixel phones, Android 16 lands months earlier than recent major versions, with a focus on productivity features and enhancements. These include Live Updates for tracking deliveries and rideshare cars, streamlined notifications, the ability to use desktop-style windows when your phone's connected to a monitor, new device security features, native controls for hearing aids and more.