Android 16 Officially Rolls Out: Here’s What’s New, Who Gets It, and How to Update

Photo: GoogleBlogs

Tech giant Google has started rolling out Android 16, marking a major leap forward in mobile innovation, privacy, and user experience. The new OS brings AI-powered personalizations, enhanced battery efficiency, and a host of privacy upgrades, aiming to provide a more intuitive and secure smartphone environment.

Unveiled at Google I/O 2025 and now entering its public release phase, Android 16 is currently available for Pixel devices and will soon arrive on flagship phones from Samsung, OnePlus, Xiaomi, Oppo, and others in the coming weeks.

What’s New in Android 16?

AI-Personalized UI
Google is doubling down on artificial intelligence. Android 16 uses on-device Gemini AI to personalize home screens, suggest replies in messages, and even adapt app layouts based on usage patterns.

Smarter Battery Management
Expect longer screen time with Smart Charge Prediction and Adaptive Thermal Control, which limits performance throttling during heat-intensive apps like games or video calls.

Next-Gen Privacy Hub
The new Privacy Dashboard gives users real-time app access tracking, permission history, and instant control toggles—now with added support for Bluetooth and Nearby Share permissions.

Satellite Connectivity Support
Android 16 supports native satellite messaging, allowing emergency texts in areas with no cellular service—especially helpful for adventure travelers or during natural disasters.

Camera Boosts
Photographers will love the new Low-Light SuperZoom, enhanced RAW controls, and native support for periscope lenses.

Gaming Mode 2.0
Gamers get smoother frame rates and faster resource allocation, thanks to new APIs designed to reduce input lag and optimize GPU performance in real time.

Multilingual Magic
A new Live Translation 2.0 tool offers faster on-device translation in 50+ languages—ideal for global users and frequent travelers.

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Eligible Devices

Currently rolling out to:

• Pixel 8, 8 Pro, Pixel Fold

• Pixel 7, 7 Pro

• Pixel 6, 6 Pro

• Samsung Galaxy S24, S23 (One UI 7 update)

• OnePlus 12, 11

• Xiaomi 14, 13 series

• Oppo Find X7, Reno 11 series

• Asus ROG Phone 8

• Nothing Phone (2 and above)

• Vivo X100 series

Expect a broader OEM rollout by July 2025.

How to Update to Android 16

1. Go to Settings → System → System Update

2. Tap Check for updates

3. If Android 16 is available, tap Download and Install

4. Ensure at least 50% battery and a stable Wi-Fi connection

What’s Next?

Google confirms Android 16 will receive quarterly Pixel Feature Drops, bringing even more AI integration, and continued refinements to power use and app performance.