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 for annual beta testing for OS updates so that the final release can be ready. In May 2025—around the time of the developers conference. Google promises to bring many new features and improvements to users with the upcoming Android 16, including revised notifications, better adaptive refresh rate support, and more.

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

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

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

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

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?

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

Advanced 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 condense all information into a small pill below the watch, showing only app icons. Tapping the pill expands the notification list, giving users a cleaner and more organized lock screen.

Embedded photo picker: Android 16 is also set to improve the embedded photo picker, which reportedly enables 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 (EHR) in the Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR) standard. The feature will let users securely access and manage health data, although functionality is limited for now.

Better adaptive refresh rate support: Google introduced Adaptive Refresh Rate (ARR) with Android 15. Now the company is improving this feature in the new OS update. Google is reportedly introducing new APIs to make it easier for developers to customize apps for ARR, providing better visuals and better power efficiency on supported devices.

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

Writing Tools API: Android 16 also includes a new Writing Tools API, which lets app developers disable AI writing tools in specific contexts, such as password fields or numeric inputs, ensuring better accuracy and security in user interactions.

Early access to Android 16 for Pixel users

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