Google Pixel devices are now receiving the Android 16 update, marking one of the earliest major Android releases in recent years. This early rollout ensures users can access new features and enhancements quickly, with other Android phone brands expected to follow suit later this year.

At the core of Android 16 is the introduction of the new Material 3 Expressive design, which aims to streamline user interaction and enhance accessibility. Here are the key features that come with this update:

• Live updates for compatible apps, allowing users to track services in real-time from their lock screen or notification shade.
• Auto-grouped notifications by app to reduce clutter and keep screens organized.
• Upgrade for users of LE Audio hearing devices, enabling clearer calls by switching from the device's mic to the phone's microphone, with native controls for hearing aids now integrated into the OS.
• Advanced Protection feature for enhanced mobile security, protecting devices from online threats, malicious apps, phishing sites, scam calls, and more with a single tap.
• Collaboration with Samsung to introduce desktop windowing for large-screen devices, enabling users to open, resize, and move multiple app windows on the same screen similar to a PC.

Additional updates expected in the future include HDR screenshots, adaptive refresh rates, identity verification tools, custom keyboard shortcuts, taskbar overflow support, and more productivity tools. Pixel users can also anticipate additional Material 3 design features and the upcoming Wear OS 6 refresh.

Android 16 is currently available on compatible Pixel phones, with a broader release to other Android devices planned for later this year. Samsung has also initiated the beta program for its Android 16-based One UI 8 for the Galaxy S25 series in select regions.