Google Releases Android 16: What’s New and What’s Missing

Android 16 debuts with smarter notifications, improved hearing aid support, and advanced security tools for high-risk users. It’s rolling out now to Pixel devices.

Google has begun rolling out Android 16, delivering one of its earliest major OS releases in recent years. The update is now available for supported Pixel phones, with broader availability for other devices expected this year.

Announcing the release in a blog post, Seang Chau, VP and GM of Android Platform, said, “This is the earliest Android has launched a major release in the last few years, which ensures you get the latest updates as soon as possible on your devices.”

While major UI changes are still on the way, Android 16 introduces notable upgrades across notifications, security, accessibility, multitasking, and hearing device support.

Cleaner notifications with live updates

One of Android’s 16 most useful features is Live Updates, which gives real-time alerts for ...