Android 16 DP1: First Developer Preview Released – Discover the Initial Features

Google’s recent development efforts have quickly shifted from Android 15, which was only released for Pixel devices in mid-October, to the first developer preview of Android 16. The decision to accelerate the development of this next iteration of the Android operating system has been anticipated for some time, with the final release expected around the second quarter of 2025.

New Features in Android 16: Enhanced Media Sharing and Health Data Integration

One of the standout features in the first preview of Android 16 is an improved photo picker that allows developers to incorporate this tool directly into their applications. Originally introduced in Android 13, this photo picker enables users to share only selected images and videos with apps, effectively enhancing user privacy by not granting complete access to their device or cloud storage.

This revamped photo picker isn’t exclusive to the latest Android version; it will also be compatible with devices running Android 4.4 (API Level 19) or later, thanks to Google’s modular system components and updates. According to Google, integrating this feature is straightforward, requiring minimal coding with the associated Android Jetpack library.

Advancements in Health Data Management

In addition to the photo picker, Android 16 introduces an early version of the Health Connect feature, designed to enable the sharing of health records. This feature aims to allow applications to read and write medical records in the FHIR format, which is essential for modern healthcare applications.

This functionality could facilitate the exchange of information between apps and medical devices, provided users give explicit consent. This capability mirrors the features found in Apple’s Health app for iPhones, presenting a significant step forward in health data integration on the Android platform.

Timeline for the Final Release of Android 16

Google has provided a detailed roadmap with the release of DP1, indicating that users can expect a second developer preview in December 2024, followed by four public beta versions starting in January 2025. The third beta, scheduled for March 2025, is particularly noteworthy, as it will signify a milestone in platform stability.

Once this stability is achieved, subsequent updates are expected not to alter existing APIs, ensuring that application behavior remains consistent. The anticipated launch for the final version of Android 16 is projected to occur between May and June 2025, with June 3 being cited as a potential release date. However, Google might also announce the official launch during its annual developer conference, Google I/O 2025, which typically occurs in May.

• November 2024 – Android 16 Developer Preview 1
• December 2024 – Android 16 Developer Preview 2
• January 2025 – Android 16 Beta 1
• February 2025 – Android 16 Beta 2
• March 2025 – Android 16 Beta 3
• April 2025 – Android 16 Beta 4

Important Note: Developer Focus

It’s crucial to note that the initial release of Android 16 is intended primarily for developers. While curious users may install this version, it is not recommended due to its unstable nature, which makes it unsuitable for daily use on primary devices.

The DP1 is not available through the Android Beta Program; instead, users must manually flash the image file to install it. With many Android devices still awaiting the update to Android 15, we encourage users to explore our comprehensive overview of the best features from the current Android 15 version. If you’re unsure whether your device will receive the Android 15 update, our guide provides clarity on the subject.