Android 16 arrives early, Google drops major update right after iOS 26 liquid glass reveal
Just a day after Apple unveiled its iOS 26 with a new liquid glass interface, Google has released Android 16 – its latest mobile operating system – earlier than expected, starting with supported Pixel devices. This marks one of the earliest Android rollouts in recent years, signalling a shift towards faster software update for users. Other Android phone makers are expected to follow in the coming months. Android updates often arrive later in the year. However, the earlier release of Android 16 this time, appears to be a strategic move to keep pace with Apple's recent unveiling of iOS 26. advertisementThe new version brings several improvements across accessibility, security, and productivity, along with a visual refresh that builds on Google's Material 3 Expressive design language – which will be completely rolled out in the coming months. Real-time updatesOne of the most noticeable updates is in how Android 16 handles notifications. Live updates – starting with supported ride-hailing and food delivery apps – let users track activity in real time, without repeatedly opening the app. For example, instead of constantly checking your phone to see if your food is on the way, a live notification will keep you updated as it progresses. This is similar to the live updates you get for delivery apps like Swiggy and Zepto, on an iPhone. Google says it's working with partners like Samsung, OPPO, and OnePlus to bring this to more devices via integrations like Samsung's Now Bar and OnePlus' Live Alerts.advertisement
Additionally, Android 16 now automatically groups notifications from the same app together, reducing clutter and helping users stay organised.
Better support for hearing aidsAndroid 16 also brings significant enhancements for users with hearing aids. Until now, most LE audio hearing devices relied on their built-in microphones to capture sound, which often meant background noise interfered with calls. However, with the update, users can now switch to using their phone's microphone, which means clearer conversations, especially in noisy environments. Moreover, Android 16 adds built-in support for managing hearing devices directly through the phone. Users can now control settings like volume without needing to use separate apps, ensuring a smoother and more consistent experience.
Advanced ProtectionGoogle is also introducing 'Advanced Protection' with Android 16, a new high-security mode aimed at people who want extra protection against sophisticated threats. The feature blocks malicious apps, scam calls, harmful websites and other cyber threats. While it's designed with public figures and high-risk users in mind, anyone can activate it for additional peace of mind.A more desktop-like experienceadvertisementFor users of larger-screen devices like foldables and tablets, Android 16 introduces a big productivity boost. Google has worked closely with Samsung to roll out 'desktop windowing', which is a new mode that allows users to open, move, and resize multiple app windows, similar to a traditional desktop interface.This new windowing option sits alongside existing modes like split-screen and single-app view, giving users more flexibility when multitasking. The feature will roll out later this year to compatible large-screen Android devices.Future updates will also include custom keyboard shortcuts and a new taskbar overflow tool to help users quickly access apps when space runs out on the screen.
More updates on the wayOther improvements in Android 16 include HDR screenshots, adaptive refresh rates for smoother visuals, and a new 'identity check' feature -- although Google has yet to share more details on the latter.More design and functionality updates are planned for Android 16 later this year, including deeper integration of the Material 3 Expressive design language across devices. Google says Wear OS 6 for Pixel smartwatches will also benefit from these upcoming changes.
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