After releasing two developer betas, Google has formally launched the primary public beta of Android 16. The replace is now out there as an over-the-air (OTA) replace for Pixel gadgets enrolled within the Android Beta Program, beginning with the Pixel 6 and newer fashions.
Adaptive apps for higher scalability
A standout characteristic of the Android 16 Beta 1 is adaptive apps. Google goals to make sure that apps scale seamlessly throughout totally different display screen sizes, orientations, and kind components. Beginning with API degree 36, apps should help resizable home windows on screens with a minimal width of 600dp. Moreover, builders will not be allowed to limit app window scaling or orientation, enabling higher performance on foldable and large-screen gadgets.
Stay updates for dynamic notifications
Android 16 brings Stay Updates, Google’s tackle Apple’s Stay Actions from the iPhone 14 Professional. These good alerts monitor ongoing duties like maps, meals orders, and rides. The characteristic makes use of a Progress Fashion alert format with icons, steps, and job states you possibly can tweak. Samsung’s Now Bar in One UI 7 gives the same device, however Google’s model is constructed to work higher throughout all Android gadgets.
Superior video and digital camera enhancements
The beta brings native help for the Superior Skilled Video (APV) codec, enabling professional-grade video recording and post-production. This codec helps as much as 8K video at a 2Gbps bitrate. Google has additionally included an evening mode for cameras, higher textual content rendering for vertical scripts and new options to make the platform simpler to make use of for everybody.
Google plans to roll out at the very least three extra Android 16 public betas earlier than the ultimate model is prepared. A serious beta with contemporary APIs will arrive in Q2, adopted by a smaller replace in This fall to repair bugs. Android 16 is ready to launch sooner than previous variations, with the complete launch anticipated in March.
The way to set up Android 16 Beta 1
Android 16 Beta 1 is now out there for Google Pixel gadgets, with the ultimate steady launch anticipated in Q2 this yr. If you happen to personal a Pixel cellphone or pill, you possibly can be part of the Android Beta Program by visiting Google’s official web site. As soon as enrolled, you’ll have the ability to test your account for eligible gadgets and obtain the beta replace.
Supported Pixel gadgets
The next Pixel fashions are suitable with Android 16 Beta 1:
- Pixel 6 / Pixel 6 Professional
- Pixel 6a
- Pixel 7 / Pixel 7 Professional
- Pixel 7a
- Pixel Fold
- Pixel Pill
- Pixel 8 / Pixel 8 Professional
- Pixel 8a
- Pixel 9 / Pixel 9 Professional / Pixel 9 Professional XL / Pixel 9 Professional Fold
The Android 16 beta gives new instruments to enhance scaling, alerts, and video high quality. With extra updates coming quickly, it’s shaping as much as be a robust improve for Pixel customers and different Android followers.