Android 16 Release Date, Features & Upgrade Guide for Pixel Devices

By Vincent ·

Android 16 Is Here for Pixel Phones!

Android 16 (aka “Baklava”) started rolling out to Pixel devices on June 10–11, 2025—Google’s earliest major update ever! If you’ve been wondering what’s new, here’s the lowdown on Material 3 tweaks, lock-screen Live Updates, top-tier security modes, and those neat Pixel-only bonuses you won’t want to miss.

When & Which Devices

Rollout Dates
The OTA began on June 10, 2025, and by the next day most Pixel owners saw the update pop up in Settings.

Supported Pixels

  • Pixel 6 / 6 Pro / 6a
  • Pixel 7 / 7 Pro / 7a
  • Pixel Fold / Pixel Tablet
  • Pixel 8 / 8 Pro / 8a
  • Pixel 9 / 9 Pro / 9 Pro XL / 9 Pro Fold / 9a

What’s Fresh in Android 16

1. Material 3 Expressive

Your UI gets a facelift with new theming options, midscreen widgets, and smoother animations—plus HDR screenshots that really pop.

2. Live Updates on Lock Screen

Track ride-shares, deliveries, or game scores without unlocking. Apps can now push real-time info straight to your lock screen.

3. Advanced Protection & Scam Detection

Ideal for journalists or activists: enforce stricter install rules, and let Google Messages flag phishing links before you tap them.

4. Accessibility Boosts

  • Auracast LE Audio for public broadcasts with hearing aids
  • Live text detection & haptics in Magnifier
  • Expressive Captions that capture tone and emotion

5. Desktop-Style Multitasking

On foldables and tablets, resize and drag apps like on a PC—perfect for side-by-side workflows.

Pixel-Exclusive “Feature Drop” Treats

  • VIP Contacts Widget: Pin your top contacts for quick calls, messages, and reminders.
  • Gboard AI Stickers: Turn text into fun, shareable stickers instantly.
  • Pixel Studio in Photos: AI-powered edits without leaving Google Photos.
  • Satellite SOS (Australia): Emergency SOS when you’re off the grid.

How to Upgrade in 3 Steps

  1. (Optional) Join the Beta
    Sign up at Google’s Android 16 Beta Program page.
  2. Check for Update
    Go to Settings > System > System update and tap Check for update.
  3. Install & Reboot
    Follow the prompts, restart your phone, and enjoy Android 16!

Early Feedback & Tips

Some Pixel 7/7 Pro users notice a slight back-swipe delay—rolling back is easy via Recovery if you hit a snag. Otherwise, the 16.1 minor update should land later in 2025 with fixes.

Ready to explore Android 16? Head to the official Android 16 Beta Program for full release notes and troubleshooting.

Happy updating!