Android 16, codenamed “Baklava,” will transform the Android experience with a plethora of new features and enhancements. To be released in mid-2025, this update promises to make user interaction, privacy, and performance better on a broad variety of devices. Let’s take a look at the devices likely to get this update and the thrilling features it offers.
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Devices Eligible for Android 16
While the official list of devices hasn’t been confirmed, assuming previous trends and manufacturer update policies, the following devices are likely to get the Android 16 update:
Google Pixel Devices
Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a
Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro
Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro
Upcoming Pixel 9 series
Samsung
Galaxy S23 series
Galaxy S24 series
Galaxy Z Fold 5, Z Flip 5
Some Galaxy A-series models
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OnePlus
OnePlus 11
OnePlus 12
Future models
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Xiaomi and POCO
Xiaomi 13, 14 series
Redmi K70, K60, Note 14, Note 13 series
POCO F6, F5, X6, X5, M6 series
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Other Manufacturers
Motorola Edge 40, Edge 50 series
Sony Xperia 1 V, Xperia 5 V
ASUS Zenfone and ROG Phone models released from 2023 onwards
Oppo Find X6 series
Realme GT series
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Lifewire
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Expected New Features in Android 16
Android 16 is expected to bring several new innovative features to improve user experience:
1. Improved AI Integration with Gemini
Google’s AI assistant Gemini will likely have the capability of taking actions on apps, e.g., ordering food or texting, without directly opening the apps themselves.
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2. Rich Ongoing Notifications
A fresh feature akin to iOS’s Live Activities, with real-time updates (e.g., delivery status or sports scores) being presented directly on the lock screen or status bar.
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3. Redesigned Quick Settings Panel
Quick Settings panel is going to get a huge revamp, splitting up notifications from quick settings and making it possible for more customization options.
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4. Multiple Do Not Disturb Modes
There will be an option for users to create several Do Not Disturb profiles that are custom to various situations, like work, personal life, or gaming.
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5. Protection Mode Advanced
Improved security features to prevent users from targeted online attacks, with simpler enrollment and incorporation into the system settings.
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6. Floating App Bubbles
The feature of putting any app into a floating bubble above another for multitasking and easy app switching.
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7. Improved Screen Recording
Partial screen recording will allow users to switch between apps, making content creation more flexible.
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8. Bluetooth Audio Sharing
Support for Bluetooth LE Audio’s Auracast technology, which allows users to stream audio to multiple Bluetooth devices at the same time.
Wikipedia
9. Adaptive Refresh Rate Support
Integrated support for adaptive refresh rates, enhancing battery life and screen smoothness.
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10. Embedded Photo Picker Enhancements
Incorporation of cloud-based media services into the photo picker, enabling users to pick photos from cloud storage such as Google Photos directly in apps.
Wikipedia
Conclusion
Android 16 will deliver a plethora of compelling features and enhancements, making the overall user experience richer on a vast array of devices. Given its emphasis on AI support, multitasking, and user personalization, Android 16 is going to be a landmark upgrade to the Android platform. Keep an eye out for announcements and availability timetables from your device maker.
FAQs
Q1: When will Android 16 be available?
Android 16 is expected to be released officially in mid-2025, while developer previews and beta releases come earlier in the year.
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Q2: Will my device get the Android 16 update?
If you have a recent flagship smartphone from companies such as Google, Samsung, OnePlus, Xiaomi, or others, chances are your device will get the Android 16 update. Official word from your device manufacturer is, however, advisable.
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Q3: What are the headline new features of Android 16?
Headline features include AI integration improvements with Gemini, richer ongoing notifications, revamped quick settings, customizable Do Not Disturb modes, improved protection mode, floating bubbles for apps, screen recording enhancements, Bluetooth audio share, adaptive refresh rate support, and integrated photo picker improvements.
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Q4: How do I get the Android 16 beta?
You can try the Android 16 beta by signing up for Google’s Android Beta Program, often open to Pixel owners. When signed up, devices that are qualified get beta updates over-the-air (OTA) as with standard software updates. Other companies such as OnePlus, Xiaomi, and Samsung also have their own beta testing programs soon after Google puts out the official preview.
Q5: Is Android 16 more about performance or features?
Android 16 provides a mix of both. While performance enhancements such as adaptive refresh rate and improved multitasking tools are important, the update also brings user-facing features like AI integrations, floating app windows, and improved privacy tools. This two-pronged strategy provides a smoother, smarter, and more secure experience.
Q6: Will older Android phones receive Android 16?
Typically, OS updates are done on Android phones for 2–3 years since release. Phones that are older than that timeframe may be excluded unless utilizing custom ROMs or benefiting from unofficial support within developer communities such as LineageOS. Buyers are recommended to check their own phone brand for any inclusion of their model within the eligible list.
Final Thoughts: Is Android 16 Worth the Hype?
Yes—Android 16 is turning out to be one of the most significant Android updates in recent history. From the extensive integration of Gemini AI to the careful UI tweaks and privacy features, it offers practical enhancements for casual users and tech aficionados alike. Whether you’re multitasking with floating bubbles or personalizing new Do Not Disturb modes, Android 16 is engineered to make your smartphone experience more intuitive and personalized.
So, if you’re using a newer flagship or mid-range Android device, you’re in for a treat. Keep an eye on the official release timeline and be ready to update when Android 16 rolls out to your device.