Android 16 first beta releasing in January? Here is everything we know

Google is reportedly planning for an early beta release of its upcoming Android 16 by January 2025. The new OS upgrade will introduce features like revamped notifications, adaptive refresh rate improvements, and enhanced security.

In Short

• Google is likely to release the first Beta of Android 16 by end of January 2025
• The final stable release is expected in May 2025
• The early release is said to be in line with the launch timeline of Pixel 10 series

Google is planning to release the first beta of its new-gen OS update– Android 16, by the end of January 2025. The tech giant is reportedly pushing the annual beta testing for the OS update early to make the final release all set to roll in May 2025– around the time of developer’s conference. With the upcoming Android 16 Google promises to bring users a host of new features and improvements, including revamped notifications, better adaptive refresh rate support, and more.

According to a report by the Android Authority, Google plans to release the first beta build of Android 16 in January, with subsequent beta updates rolling out between February and March. This timeline reportedly matches Google’s plan to push the stable release by May 2025– certainly before the launch of the new flagship Pixel 10 launch.

According to the reports, Google is said to be following this timeline:

• January 22, 2025: First beta release.
• February 19, 2025: Second beta release.
• March 12, 2025: Third beta release.
• May 2025: Stable version launch, possibly coinciding with Google I/O 2025.

The early cycle of beta releases is likely due to the launch of the Pixel 10 series, expected in August 2025. Notably, the latest Pixel 9, which was launched in August 2024 was shipped with the older OS Android 14 as Android 15 was delayed. However, this year, Google is planning to bring the new flagship pre-installed with the latest OS update.

Right now, Android 16 is in early beta and available for developers to test upcoming features on supported Pixel devices.

What’s new in Android 16?

While not all features have been revealed, the early betas have confirmed and hinted at several exciting updates for Android 16.

Upgraded lock screen notifications: One of the most anticipated updates in Android 16 is the introduction of a "Compact" notification view for the lock screen. This feature, discovered by Android expert Mishaal Rahman, allows users to collapse all notifications into a small pill below the clock, showing only app icons. Tapping the pill expands the notification list, giving users a cleaner and more organised lock screen.

Embedded Photo picker: Android 16 is also set to improve the embedded photo picker, reportedly enabling better integration with cloud media providers. The new feature will allow users to search for images directly within the picker, making it easier to upload photos to apps.

Health records integration: Building on the success of Health Connect, Android 16 is also reportedly introducing support for Electronic Health Records (EHRs) in the Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR) standard. This feature will let users access and manage health data securely, though functionality remains limited for now.

Improved adaptive refresh rate support: Google introduced Adaptive Refresh Rate (ARR), with Android 15. Now in the new OS update, the company is bringing improvements to this feature. Google is reportedly introducing new APIs to make it easier for developers to optimise apps for ARR, offering smoother visuals and improved power efficiency on supported devices.

Security features: Just like every year, the new OS Android 16 also includes new security features. This year, improving the security, Google is strengthening Wi-Fi location services, using the 802.11az standard. This will enable more accurate and secure proximity-based applications, like unlocking devices or vehicles.

Writing tools API: A new Writing Tools API is also included in Android 16, letting app developers disable AI writing tools in specific contexts, such as password fields or numerical inputs, ensuring better accuracy and security in user interactions.

Android 16 early access for Pixel users

Right now, Pixel device owners can try out Android 16 early through the beta program. Google will release a full list of supported devices closer to the official release date. However, interested users can enrol in the beta program can explore the new features and provide feedback to Google before the stable release.