Google has unveiled the first public beta version of Android 16, now available to participants in the testing program. The update introduces a new notification class, enhances app adaptability, and includes several other subtle improvements.
Live Updates: Real-Time Notifications
One standout addition is the new Live Updates notification class, designed to track ongoing events in real time. This feature functions similarly to the Live Activities notifications introduced in iOS in 2022. For example, Live Updates can provide status updates on restaurant orders or navigation app progress.
Samsung implemented a similar feature, Now Bar, in its One UI 7 for Galaxy S25 devices. While Samsung and Apple’s systems support a broader range of notifications, such as sports scores, Android 16’s Live Updates currently remain limited in scope. Yet, we’ll keep you updated as more integrations become available.
Enhanced App Adaptability
Another key change in Android 16 is a restriction on developers’ ability to lock app window sizes and orientations. This ensures apps function smoothly on devices with varying screen sizes and form factors, like tablets. As a result, apps will automatically open in full-screen mode on larger devices, even if they previously imposed size or orientation restrictions.
Notably, this adjustment does not yet apply to games. However, by Android 17’s expected release in 2026, developers will need to consider these new guidelines.
Additional Features and Availability
The beta also introduces support for the Advanced Professional Video codec, designed for recording and processing high-quality video. Additionally, Google has added an API to improve camera app performance in low-light conditions, notes NIXSOLUTIONS.
Further enhancements include updates to the Gemini AI assistant. Currently, Gemini interacts with Google’s apps, selected Samsung apps, and services like Spotify and WhatsApp.
The Android 16 beta is compatible with all Google Pixel smartphones starting from the Pixel 6. The stable version is anticipated in the second quarter of this year.