Android 16 is here: revolutionary features revealed for Pixel users!

Android 16 is here: revolutionary features revealed for Pixel users!

On June 10, 2025, Google announced the official release of Android 16. The announcement was made via Platform X (formerly Twitter), with the update available immediately, but initially only for the current Google Pixel devices and via emulators in Android Studio. This new version has the official name “Android 16”, with its internal codename being “Baklava”. The previous version, Android 15, was dubbed “Vanilla Ice Cream.”

Android 16 brings a variety of technical improvements, new camera features, large screen adjustments, and other developer tools. The improvements in the area of ​​the camera and media are particularly noteworthy. Functions such as night photography recognition, combined automatic exposure and more precise color temperature settings are new highlights. Support for the professional APV codec also enables high-quality video recording.

Improvements in user experience

Another central point of the new version is the adjustments for apps. They now have to be displayed across the entire edge of the screen by default, significantly improving the user experience on larger devices. In addition, the use of apps on tablets and folding devices is made more flexible, while the new reverse navigation and support for adaptive refresh rates optimize the interaction of apps and games.

Additional features include the introduction of Live Updates, which also appear on the lock screen and notification bar. These new notifications provide real-time information about ongoing activities that are of interest to users. Improved data protection also remains a focus, as the update gives users more control over their media files and more targeted protection against redirects via “intents”.

Attractive features for developers and end users

Developers are encouraged to move to Android 16 to avoid issues with mismatched apps. New APIs are provided to make it easier for developers to adapt their applications to the new features. For end users, the nine new emojis from Unicode 16.0 and the ability to save photos in HEIC format are notable improvements that enrich everyday life.

The new interface also features a redesigned settings panel, an optimized volume slider and updated widgets on the lock screen. The integration of generative AI in the new image editor is also an exciting feature, allowing users to create custom stickers using the Gboard keyboard.

Android 16 availability extends to the following Pixel models: Pixel 6, 6a, 6 Pro, 7, 7a, 7 Pro, 8, 8a, 8 Pro, 9, 9a, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL as well as the Pixel Fold and the Pixel Tablet. Users from other manufacturers will have to wait for their respective device manufacturers to implement the new version.

Further improvements can be expected in the coming months with the introduction of “Advanced Protection Mode” and functional updates. Android 16 puts the focus on functional rather than large visual experiments, which should guarantee users a smoother and more efficient experience. Central innovations, such as the “Material 3 Expressive” user interface, are not expected until autumn 2025, which further increases the anticipation for further developments.