Android 16 has just arrived, hot on the heels of the iOS 26 beta. Google is going all in on stealing Apple's thunder as well, introducing some new updates that directly correlate to iOS features.
While Google has historically released new Android versions between August and September, the tech giant confirmed last month that it would have an earlier June debut this year. That day has now come, with Android 16 landing on select Google Pixel models on Wednesday. Other Android devices will need to wait a bit longer, with Google planning to roll out the update more broadly over the next few months.
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We'd already heard a lot about Android 16 prior to this week. Google launched its public beta in January, allowing Android fans to get an early peek at the new changes. Now that it's out of beta, here are a few of the features arriving in Android 16.
Live Updates and neater notifications
One of Android 16's most notable new features is the introduction of Live Updates, which are essentially Google's version of Apple's Live Activities. This allows app developers to implement notifications which include live progress bars, helping users to keep track of time-sensitive activities such as Uber trips and food deliveries.
However, Live Updates isn't entirely live just yet. While this week's Android 16 release lets developers begin creating and customising these notifications, the OS won't prioritise them or keep them expanded on the always-on display until a later update.
Notifications from a single app will also be automatically grouped together, keeping your phone display more organised. This should mean you're less likely to feel inundated with an avalanche of information and alerts after putting your phone down for a little while.
Adaptive apps that go edge-to-edge
Like Apple, Google's latest operating system also has a strong focus on aesthetics, with Android 16 laying the groundwork for its planned Material 3 Expressive update. This week Google's OS update forces apps to go edge-to-edge to fill users' entire screens, adapting to different screen sizes and aspect ratios. Previously, developers were able to opt out of going edge-to-edge, however with Android 16 that will no longer be an option.
Predictive back on by default
Android 16 further makes predictive back on by default, where previously it was up to developers to opt in. Initially introduced in Android 13, this allows users to long-press the back button in order to see a preview of which screen it will take you to. Such system animations should make navigating your Android phone a little more predictable.
Scam protection features
This week's Android update also comes with a few new features focusing on security, specifically protecting users against scams. Android 16's Activated Protection includes various security features designed to shield users from an array of malicious attacks, whether they're from dangerous websites or scam calls.
For example, Android 16's Scam Detection AI tool warns users if it detects a suspicious conversation, focusing on common deceptions such as toll road, crypto, and technical support scams. It also has in-call protections preventing users from granting accessibility permissions which let others seize control of their device, as tricking people into allowing such access is a common technique among scammers. Activated Protection can be toggled on in your phone's security and privacy settings.
Topics Android
