Android 16 Beta 1 Released for Testing

On Friday, Google launched Android 16 Beta 1, allowing developers and tech enthusiasts to experience the upcoming major update to its smartphone operating system. This initial beta version is available exclusively for recent Google Pixel models. Google has also unveiled several new features that will be included in Android 16 when it officially rolls out in the coming months. Notably, this yearโ€™s release is expected to occur in the second quarter of 2024, marking an earlier launch than Google’s usual schedule, which typically falls in the third or fourth quarter.

Android 16 Beta 1 Features

The first beta of Android 16 introduces a feature called Live Updates. This feature allows apps to display the status of ongoing activities, such as food deliveries or navigation through Google Maps. Users will see custom icons representing these activities in their notification lists. This functionality is reminiscent of Appleโ€™s Live Activities feature, which debuted with iOS 16.

Another significant addition is the enhancement of navigation. Previous Android versions introduced a predictive back animation for gesture-based navigation. Now, Android 16 extends this functionality to the traditional three-button navigation mode. Users will be able to preview the app that will appear when they swipe back, making navigation more intuitive.

Camera capabilities are also getting a boost in Android 16. The update will support the Advanced Professional Video (APV) codec, enabling users to record videos in up to 8K resolution. It will also allow for multi-view video recording and support for HDR 10 and HDR 10+, ensuring high-quality visuals. Additionally, new application programming interfaces (APIs) will help apps detect low-light conditions, enhancing photography in challenging environments.

Moreover, Google is mandating that apps support resizable windows on devices with a pixel density of 600dpi or higher. While apps targeting API level 36 (Android 16) can opt out this year, those designed for API level 37 will not have this option starting in 2026. This change aims to improve user experience across various screen sizes and resolutions.

Android 16 Beta 1 Eligible Devices

The Android 16 Beta 1 is currently available for download on a range of recent Google Pixel smartphones and the Google Pixel Tablet. Developers and enthusiasts who have enrolled their devices can access this beta version as an over-the-air (OTA) update. This accessibility allows users to explore the new features and provide feedback to Google.

Eligible devices include the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, and the Pixel Fold. Additionally, owners of the Pixel Tablet can also download the new beta version.

It is important to note that Android 16 Beta 1 is pre-release software. As such, it may contain bugs and other issues that could affect daily performance. Therefore, Google advises against installing this beta version on primary devices or daily drivers. The stable version of Android 16 is expected to be released by the end of June 2024, providing users with a more polished experience.


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