Google recently released Android 16, bringing a handful of new features for Pixel phones and promises of more updates in the future. The latest release is perhaps the most low-key version of the platform yet, but that has been part of Google’s goal for years: creating a world where the average phone buyer does not worry about Android version numbers. When you install Android 16 on a Pixel phone, you might need to check the settings to confirm the update, as the visual changes are so minor they are easy to miss.
Google has changed the style of icons in the overview screen and added more options to the overview app menus. These are subtle tweaks, and more noticeable changes are expected when Google releases Material 3 Expressive, which is still some way off. There are some thoughtful UI changes in Android 16, though they are not immediately apparent.
Google’s predictive back gesture now works with button navigation, and apps targeting the new API will default to using edge-to-edge rendering for a more immersive experience. Android apps have historically neglected larger form factors, but since the Android 12L release, Google has been addressing this issue. Foldable phones and other big-screen devices will benefit from adaptive apps that automatically adjust to larger screens.
Security has been a key focus in recent Android updates. Advanced Protection in Android 16 aims to prevent malware and data capture by blocking insecure 2G connections, websites without HTTPS, and exploits over USB. It also disables sideloading of apps, which might concern some users.
However, for less tech-savvy individuals, enabling Advanced Protection is recommended.
Pixel phone notifications get streamlined
Changes to notifications are likely to make the biggest daily impact.
Android 16 introduces a quality-of-life improvement by bundling notifications for each app, making the notification shade less overwhelming. This improvement brings a cleaner, more manageable interface. Additionally, a new category of notifications can show progress bars, similar to a feature on the iPhone, which will be particularly useful for delivery and rideshare apps.
None of these features are particularly groundbreaking, but the changes are part of a revamped release schedule. Android 16’s second update is expected later in the year, bringing more intriguing features. Google now plans to release major updates in Q2, with follow-up tweaks at the end of the year.
Features like the desktop windowing function and the stylish but divisive UI overhaul are still in testing and will be included in the next Pixel Drop in September. Material 3 Expressive will introduce more significant changes to Google’s Pixel devices, but other manufacturers might diverge. For example, Motorola has typically followed Google’s interface closely, while Samsung and OnePlus have developed their own styles.
While Android 16 might not be a flashy update, it lays important groundwork for the future. The era of groundbreaking Android updates, when features like screenshots were headlining, is over. Now, Google’s goal seems to be making Android updates less about exciting new features and more about stability and security.
The excitement that once surrounded big updates has been tempered by a desire for uniformity and reliability across all devices.
Kirstie a technology news reporter at DevX. She reports on emerging technologies and startups waiting to skyrocket.
