Google is gearing up for the release of Android 16, with the first beta version expected to roll out as early as January 22, 2025. This marks an accelerated timeline compared to previous Android releases, as the stable version is anticipated to launch in the second quarter of 2025. The announcement follows the release of Android 15 in October 2024, with Google aiming to provide a quicker update cycle. The first beta version will be followed by subsequent beta releases in February and March, with platform stability expected by mid-March. This suggests that Android 16 could reach users earlier than its predecessor. Android 16 is rumoured to bring several enhancements, including revamped volume controls, a sharper user interface, improved accessibility options, and better battery performance.

Android 16 Features (Expected)

Android 16 is expected to bring several notable features aimed at enhancing user experience, privacy, and functionality. The Photo Picker feature will see improvements, allowing users to grant access to specific media files rather than their entire library, giving them greater control over their privacy. 

The Health Connect app will be upgraded with the ability to read and write medical data in the FIHR (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources) format, paving the way for better health data management. 

Security enhancements will also be a key focus, with improved support for Wi-Fi 6’s 802.11az, enabling more secure location-based features on compatible devices. 

The Privacy Sandbox in Android 16 will further bolster privacy protections, safeguarding user data more effectively. Adding further, the Adaptive Refresh Rate (ARR) feature, introduced in Android 15, will see significant improvements with new APIs, making it easier for developers to optimize app performance and take full advantage of this functionality.

According to Google’s official Android 16 release timeline, the first beta build will roll out this month, followed by the second beta update in February and the third beta update in March. The timeline doesn’t mention exact dates, but Android Authority contributor Assemble Debug has spotted a comment on the Android Gerrit in which a Googler reveals that Android 16 Beta 3 will roll out on March 12.

The Googler also mentions two other significant dates in the comment: January 22 and February 19. While not explicitly confirmed, these could be the release dates for the first and second beta builds.

With the Beta 3 update, Android 16 will reach its first Platform Stability milestone. Afterward, Google may roll out additional beta builds for final testing in April and May before releasing the stable update to AOSP and Pixel devices in Q2 2025. The next major Android platform upgrade will likely bring several significant changes and new features. You can learn more about the confirmed and leaked features that could be a part of the update in our Android 16 features roundup.

INFORMATION CREDIT : Google  

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