The updates in Android 16, which were unveiled at The Android Show for Google I/O 2025, feature changes to the design, better security, and a more involved role for AI.
In this update, Gemini AI is used across the board, and there are better safeguards against spam during calls and other unsafe changes to the user interface. Users who have tried the beta software say there is a revised Quick Settings area for easy regulation of main tasks, Material 3 Expressive for constant theme changes and more dynamic motions, and Live Activities are locked on the device’s home screen so you always know about past actions.
Currently, Android 13 can be tried on Developer Preview and Beta channels, and it’s due to be fully released for Pixel devices in June and other OEMs in the summer.

Highlighted Features Of Android 16

Material 3 Expressive Design
Material 3 Expressive is presented in Android 16 and lets the phone choose colors, fonts, and icons to match the wallpaper or the user’s choice.
Icons and adaptive widgets change seamlessly from one state to another with smooth morphing effects, while the volume slider has a thinner handle and its icons are moved to the bottom for an improved look . The appearance of the power menu has been improved to follow the expressive design.

Lock Screen Live Activities
Android 16 borrows from other platforms by showing ongoing activities on the lock screen. You can still see the Live Activities when the phone is not active, avoiding the need to unlock the screen often and handling urgent tasks more quickly.

Better In Call and Privacy Security
Android 16 uses AI on each device to detect suspected scam and robocalls and prevents the phone from ringing until these calls are confirmed to be legitimate. Call screen protections now prevent malicious apps from secretly giving access to your screen or recording audio during calls.

Release Timeline and Availability
Starting now, Pixel phones and a few partners can access Android 16 Developer Preview and Beta, providing early access.
Pixel phones will first be released in June 2025, while Samsung and OnePlus releases are coming later in the summer.