Google on Tuesday released Android 16, the company’s earliest major operating system launch in recent years, with new features designed to improve accessibility and productivity across smartphones and tablets.
The update rolls out first to supported Pixel devices, with additional phone manufacturers expected to follow later this year. Android 16 introduces Google’s Material 3 Expressive design language and focuses on streamlining user experiences.
Live Updates Reduce App Switching
One of the most notable features allows users to receive real-time updates from food delivery and ride-share applications directly through notifications, eliminating the need to repeatedly open apps to check order status.
“Instead of opening your delivery app every 5 minutes, live updates keep you informed in real-time,” Google said in a blog post announcing the release.
The feature launches with compatible ride-share and food delivery partners, with Google working to expand the capability across Samsung’s Now Bar and alert systems from OPPO and OnePlus.
Android 16 also automatically groups notifications from individual apps to reduce screen clutter and information overload.
Hearing Aid Integration Improves Calls
The update includes significant enhancements for users with hearing aids, addressing a common problem with current LE audio hearing devices. These devices typically use front-facing microphones designed to capture others’ voices rather than the user’s own speech.
Android 16 allows users to switch to their phone’s microphone during calls for clearer audio in noisy environments. The system also introduces native hearing device controls, enabling users to adjust volume and settings directly from their Android phones.
Security Features Streamlined
Google’s Advanced Protection program, previously requiring multiple setup steps, can now be activated with a single tap. The security suite protects against online attacks, malicious applications, unsafe websites and scam calls.
The feature targets users who “prioritize security” or face sophisticated digital threats, according to Google.
Tablet Productivity Gets Desktop-Style Windows
Working with Samsung, Google developed desktop windowing capabilities that allow users to open, resize and move multiple application windows simultaneously on large-screen devices.
The feature expands beyond existing single-app and split-screen modes, providing desktop-like functionality on tablets and foldable devices.
Additional productivity features launching later this year include custom keyboard shortcuts and taskbar overflow options. Future updates will enable users to connect tablets and phones to external displays for expanded desktop experiences.
Additional Features and Rollout
Android 16 includes other enhancements such as HDR screenshots, adaptive refresh rate technology and identity verification features. Google plans to release additional Material 3 Expressive design updates for Android 16 and Wear OS 6 on Pixel devices later this year.
The company has made developer testing available for the external display connectivity features.
Complete feature details are available at Android.com/16.