Join the Android 16 Developer Preview: Early Access Now Available for Testers

Essential Information

• Google has unexpectedly launched the Android 16 Developer Preview ahead of schedule, with the final version projected for release in Q2 2025.
• This new iteration introduces features such as an integrated photo picker and a Health Records API within Health Connect.
• The preview is currently accessible for Pixel 6 and newer devices, though it requires manual installation.

In an unexpected move, Google has released the inaugural Developer Preview of Android 16 earlier than anticipated. The tech giant is now targeting a final rollout in Q2 2025, breaking away from its traditional Q3 release timeline.

The revised timeline outlines two significant updates for 2025: the core Android 16 launch slated for Q2, followed by a feature enhancement in Q4.

This Developer Preview includes a fresh photo picker that applications can utilize directly, simplifying the process of selecting and sharing images. Additionally, applications now have the capacity to manage health records via Health Connect, contingent on user consent.

The preview can be installed on Pixel devices from the 6 series forward, encompassing both Fold and Tablet models. Users currently on the Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1 must reset their devices prior to installing Android 16.

• Discover more in the Android 16 Developer Preview

If you are not a developer, it is advisable to hold off until the public beta expected in early 2025. The existing preview may contain bugs and unstable elements. Google will continue to enhance the operating system with updates leading up to the final version release.

This revised timeline indicates Google’s intention to deliver new features to users more swiftly while minimizing discrepancies between Android versions across various devices.

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