Android 16, codenamed "Baklava", is Google's next big Android release coming in June 2025. Focused on smarter notifications, pro-level camera tools, stronger privacy, and better customization, this version is shaping up to be one of Android’s most refined updates yet.
Top Features in Android 16
1. Live Updates Notifications
- Real-time alerts for Uber rides, food deliveries, and navigation
- Appears on lock screen, status bar, and always-on display
- Tap for an instant pop-up with activity details
2. Redesigned Quick Settings & Notifications
- Split layout: Swipe left for notifications, right for quick toggles
- Resizable toggles, Gaussian blur, and Material 3 styling
- New brightness slider and “Clear All” option
3. Privacy and Security Enhancements
- Privacy Sandbox for anonymous ad tracking
- Local Network Protection (LNP)
- USB Identity Check to prevent port-based attacks
- Notification Cooldown to reduce alert noise
4. Camera and Media Upgrades
- Advanced Professional Video (APV) Codec: 10-bit YUV 422 at 2 Gbps
- UltraHDR in HEIC format for vibrant photos
- Night Mode Indicator API for low-light optimization
- Manual camera controls: ISO, exposure, color temp
- Motion photo capture for cinematic effects
5. Accessibility Features
- Bluetooth LE Audio Hearing Aid support
- Outline Text Accessibility for better readability
- Supplemental Descriptions API for complex UIs
- Vertical text rendering for languages like Japanese
6. Health Connect 2.0
- FHIR support for secure medical record access
- Activity intensity tracking based on WHO standards
7. Big-Screen & Personalization Upgrades
- Responsive design for foldables and tablets
- Custom icon shapes in Pixel Launcher
- Adaptive refresh rate improvements for efficiency
8. Everyday Enhancements
- Google Wallet shortcut (double-tap power)
- Super Low Brightness Mode (Pixel 9+)
- Auracast: Stream audio to multiple Bluetooth devices
- Revamped Wi-Fi Sharing with QR codes
- Now Playing: Auto-fetch album art and default player selection
9. Under the Hood
- 16KB page size migration for improved app performance
- JobScheduler and background task optimization
- Custom haptic feedback APIs
- Linux Terminal improvements: Run graphical GNU apps in VM
Android 16 Release Timeline
- Stable Release: June 3, 2025
- Beta Availability: Pixel 6+ and select OnePlus, Xiaomi devices
- Samsung Galaxy Update: Expected by August 2025
- Google’s 7-Year Update Promise: Ensures long-term support for Pixel 8a and newer
What’s Coming Next?
Google plans to introduce more features through Quarterly Platform Releases (QPR):
- Lock screen widgets for tablets
- Redesigned volume sliders
- Updated status bar icons
- Deeper Chrome OS integration (rumored)
Conclusion: Why Android 16 is a Game-Changer
Android 16 "Baklava" offers something for every kind of user—from creators and developers to privacy-focused individuals and multitaskers. Whether you're excited about the visual changes, pro camera controls, or background system improvements, Android 16 makes your phone smarter, safer, and more personal than ever before.
Join the Android Beta Program today or get ready for the stable release in June 2025.
Note: This article is based on Android 16 Beta 4 (May 17, 2025) and Google announcements. Features are subject to change before the final release.
Want to know if your device will support Android 16? Check Google’s official developer site or comment below!