Google has officially confirmed that Android 16, codenamed “Baklava,” will roll out to the public in Q2 of 2025 This accelerated timeline aims to better align Android’s launch with new hardware releases, such as the highly anticipated Pixel 10 series, and it allows manufacturers to deliver the latest OS to users more quickly. Here’s everything you need to know about the Android 16 release date and which devices will receive the update first.
Android 16 Release Date and Rollout Timeline
According to Google’s announcements during The Android Show: I/O Edition on May 13, 2025, the stable version of Android 16 is set to launch in June 2025, with a rumored specific date of June 3, 2025 (Not Yet Officially Confirmed). The company has already released multiple developer previews and betas. The Android 16 Beta 4.1 starts rolling out on May 13, 2025, which indicates that the OS is in its final stages of refinement. This early release strategy is designed to ensure that more devices ship with Android 16 pre-installed or receive the update shortly after launch.
Devices Eligible for Android 16
Here is the list of devices that will receive this major upgrade:
Google Pixel Devices
Google Pixel devices will be the first to receive the Android 16 stable update. The following Pixel models are confirmed to be eligible:
- Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a
- Pixel 7, 7 Pro, 7a
- Pixel 8, 8 Pro, 8a
- Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold, 9a
- Pixel Fold
- Pixel Tablet
Samsung Devices
Samsung, a major Android OEM, will follow closely with its One UI 8 update based on Android 16. A Samsung executive confirmed that One UI 8 will roll out “this summer,” while specific dates remain unannounced. The Galaxy S25 series (including S25, S25 Plus, S25 Ultra, and S25 Edge) will surely receive this update along with Pixel phones.
Other Android OEMs
Some phones from other manufacturers, including OnePlus, OPPO, Xiaomi, Nothing, and Motorola, are also expected to roll out Android 16 updates, though their timelines will vary:
- OnePlus: The OnePlus 13, which is currently running on OxygenOS 15 based on Android 15, is likely to receive an Android 16 public beta this year, with a stable release following shortly after. OnePlus has a strong track record of delivering timely beta updates.
- OPPO: Devices like the OPPO Find X8 have joined Android 16 developer betas. This indicates that Oppo mobiles are also in line to receive this important update.
- Xiaomi: Xiaomi 15 and 15 Ultra will likely get Android 16 updates later this year.
- Motorola and Nothing: These brands will likely support Android 16 on recent flagships and mid-range devices launched in the past two years. However, specific timelines remain unconfirmed.
Most Android manufacturers now provide at least three OS updates. Phones launched since 2023 should be eligible for Android 16. However, older devices or budget models like Pixel 4 or 5 may not receive the update.
Key Features of Upcoming Android 16
Android 16 introduces several exciting features, including:
- Material 3 Expressive: It is a refreshed UI with enhanced animations, colors, and blur effects, debuting on Pixel devices later in 2025.
- Live Updates: Progress-centric notifications for ridesharing, delivery, and navigation, displayed prominently on the lock screen and status bar, inspired by iOS’s Live Activities.
- Enhanced Security: Features like In-Call Protection, Screen-Sharing Controls, Built-in Scam Detection, and Factory Reset Lockdown to prevent unauthorized access.
- Battery Health: A new tool for Pixel devices to monitor battery capacity and manufacturing details.
- Auracast Support: It will allow audio streaming to multiple Bluetooth devices simultaneously using Bluetooth LE Audio.
- Adaptive Apps: Apps on large-screen devices (over 600dp) will no longer restrict screen orientation or resizability, improving flexibility on tablets and foldables.
Why the Early Release?
Google decided to launch Android 16 in Q2 2025 to synchronize the OS release with its Pixel hardware launches and help other OEMs deliver updates faster. This shift addresses past criticisms, particularly from Samsung users, who faced delays with Android 15’s One UI 7 rollout. By releasing Android 16 earlier, Google aims to ensure that more devices, especially flagships, ship with the latest OS, and it will enhance the Android ecosystem’s competitiveness.
How to Prepare for the Update
Once your phone is eligible for this update, you need to:
- Free Up Storage: Android 16 will require significant storage space, so clear unnecessary files or apps if your storage is full.
- Backup Data: Always back up your device before major OS updates to prevent data loss.
- Join the Beta (Optional): If you own a Pixel 6 or higher or have a non-Pixel device (e.g., OnePlus 13, OPPO Find X8), you can enroll in the Android 16 beta program to test the OS early. Be aware that beta software may contain bugs.
Conclusion
Android 16 will launch in June 2025, with Pixel devices receiving the update first. Samsung will release One UI 8 in the summer. Other OEMs like OnePlus, OPPO, Xiaomi, and Motorola will update devices throughout 2025. This early release will ensure that the new flagships run the latest OS. It brings features like Material 3 Expressive, Live Updates, and enhanced security to users worldwide.
For the latest updates, visit Google’s Android Developers Blog or follow sumorb’s official channels.
