HIGHLIGHTS
- Google unveils the first Developer Preview of Android 16.
- Includes experimental features and known bugs for early testing.
- Check out features and eligible devices.
Google has officially released the first Developer Preview of Android 16, a test version intended for developers to optimize their apps for new features and updates. Check out the features and eligible devices.
Android 16 Developer Preview
The Android 16 Developer Preview is an early version designed to help developers adapt their apps to new features and updates. This preview is part of Google’s initiative to deliver more frequent Android API updates, ensuring smoother app compatibility and innovation.
In 2025, Google plans two significant API updates. The first release, scheduled for Q2, will arrive earlier than in previous years to better align with device launch schedules. The second update, planned for Q4, will introduce new developer APIs, enhanced features, optimizations, and bug fixes.
Key Features of the Android 16 Developer Preview
- Embedded photo picker: Provides a secure, built-in interface for users to share selected images and videos from local or cloud storage with apps, eliminating the need for full media library access.
- Health records: Introduces preliminary APIs for managing health records via the Health Connect platform. Developers can enable apps to read and write medical data in FHIR (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources) format, with explicit user consent.
- Privacy Sandbox: Features the latest iteration of the Privacy Sandbox, enhancing privacy protections. The SDK Runtime isolates third-party SDKs in a separate environment, offering improved security for user data.
Eligible Devices for Android 16 Developer Preview
- Pixel 6
- Pixel 6 Pro
- Pixel 6a
- Pixel 7
- Pixel 7 Pro
- Pixel 7a
- Pixel 8
- Pixel 8 Pro
- Pixel 8a
- Pixel 9
- Pixel 9 Pro
- Pixel 9 Pro XL
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold
- Pixel Fold
- Pixel Tablet
