Android 16: Upcoming Features to Expect in the Next Major Update

Google has taken its time releasing Android 15, even launching its latest Pixel 9 models with Android 14. However, with Android 16, the company plans to speed things up, with a release expected in the first half of the year. A developer preview is also on the horizon.

Android 16: A Shift in Naming Conventions

Not only will Android 16 bring a faster release schedule, but it will also deviate from Google’s long-standing naming traditions. For years, Android versions have been named after desserts in alphabetical order, starting with Android 1.5 “Cupcake” and including names like “Donut,” “Eclair,” and the most recent, Android 15, “Vanilla Ice Cream.”

Following this pattern, many anticipated that Android 16 would start with the letter “W.” However, as discovered by Android expert Mishaal Rahman, the next version will be named “Baklava.” This choice signifies a significant change for the Android platform, as dessert names have not been officially used since Android 10, becoming more of an internal developer reference.

New Features Embedded in Android 15

While Google has yet to reveal specific details about Android 16, insights from the quarterly updates (QPR) suggest what might be included. Google employs a “trunk-based” development model, enabling developers to work on a central main branch while utilizing “flags” to activate features and APIs for specific builds.

This allows for the activation of unofficial and unannounced features, as highlighted by Rahman’s extensive Android research. It is essential to note that features might change before the final release, and some may even appear in earlier QPR versions.

Revamped Notifications and Quick Settings

In Android 16, Google appears to be redesigning notifications and quick settings, possibly adopting a dual-pane approach similar to Apple’s iOS. Rahman showcases a new version of this feature, indicating that the notification bar will no longer occupy the entire screen, allowing users to see the active app below.

Moreover, users will access the notification bar with a single finger, while a two-finger gesture will reveal quick settings. This could lead to some criticism, as the previous solution allowed both features to be accessed with a single gesture. Future iterations of the feature may eliminate the need for a two-finger gesture entirely.

Potential Features and Release Timeline for Android 16

Among the anticipated features for Android 16 is the introduction of app bubbles, allowing any app to be displayed in a floating “bubble.” This feature has already been available for chat apps since Android 11. Rahman notes that Google could potentially extend this functionality across all apps, enabling temporary shortcuts in bubble form for browsers, utilities, and more.

Another feature, the “Notification Cooldown,” aims to reduce noise in chat applications by ensuring that only the first notification sounds at full volume, with subsequent notifications playing at a reduced level. This feature was expected with Android 15 but is now slated for Android 16.

As for the release date, Google has announced that Android 16 is expected to launch in the second quarter of the year, marking a significant advancement compared to previous versions, which typically debuted between August and October. Although no exact date has been given, early speculation suggests June 3, 2025, as a possibility.

In conclusion, Android 16 promises to bring exciting innovations and enhancements, continuing Google’s commitment to improving user experience and functionality. Stay tuned for the upcoming developer preview, which will likely provide more insights into the new features and updates.