Android 15: In a surprising move, Google has released the Android 16 Developer Preview for its Pixel devices, just weeks after launching Android 15. This early release marks a shift in the company’s usual timeline, as Android versions are typically announced during the Google I/O event. The Android 16 Developer Preview is now available for the Pixel 9 series, with a full public rollout planned for the first half of 2025.
Key Features
The Android 16 Developer Preview introduces several enhancements aimed at improving privacy and user experience. One of the standout features is the Photo Picker, allowing users to grant third-party apps access to selected photos and videos only, ensuring greater privacy. Additionally, the update emphasizes better privacy controls for medical records, requiring apps to seek explicit permission before accessing sensitive data.
Android 16 Release Timeline
According to Google’s updated timeline, the first Developer Preview went live in November, with the second scheduled for December. The first beta version will be available by January 2025, followed by the final release in May or June. This new schedule marks a shift from Google’s previous approach of releasing Android updates in October.
Eligible Devices
It is currently available for the following Pixel devices:
– Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro
– Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, and Pixel 7a
– Pixel Fold
– Pixel Tablet
– Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro
– Pixel 9 series, including Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold
What’s Next?
Google is committed to rolling out significant updates for Android 16 throughout December, leading up to its final release in mid-2025. The revised timeline gives Google more flexibility to refine the software and align it with the latest smartphone technology, ensuring a seamless experience for users worldwide.
With this new release schedule and a focus on enhanced privacy, Android 16 is shaping up to be a major step forward in mobile OS innovation.
