The upcoming version of Android has achieved significant progress as it approaches its public launch. Google has initiated the rollout of the fourth beta update for Android 16, marking a key point in platform stability.
Developer Updates and App Compatibility
Developers who have tailored their applications for Android 16 can now submit updates through the Google Play Store. This latest beta is close to being final, as all app behaviors and background functions are now set.
Expanding Beta Testing Beyond Pixel Devices
Until now,public beta testing for Android 16 was exclusive to Google's Pixel smartphones. With the release of beta 4, more brands are joining this testing phase.
Brands like Honor,iQOO,Lenovo,OnePlus,OPPO,Realme,Sharp,Vivo,and Xiaomi are preparing their own beta updates based on this new build of Android 16.For instance, Oppo has announced that a beta version of ColorOS 15—built on Android 16—is ready for its Find X8 model in several markets.
Xiaomi is already participating in developer testing and will soon offer a public beta for its Xiaomi 15 and 14T Pro models. Similarly, vivo's X200 and iQoo's 13 smartphones are also undergoing developer-focused tests along with OnePlus’s latest device.
Key Features Introduced in Android 16
Android 16 does not feature a complete redesign but includes numerous functional enhancements. One notable addition is live notifications that come with progress bars and real-time updates across the system.
Another exciting feature is Audio Share; this allows users to stream audio from their phones to multiple Bluetooth headphones or earbuds simultaneously.
The update also brings Adaptive refresh rate technology which adjusts the display’s refresh rate automatically to conserve battery life. Developers will gain finer control over haptic feedback within their applications as well.
On the photography front,Android 16 introduces a hybrid exposure system that simplifies adjustments related to exposure settings like ISO and lighting within camera apps. Similar controls will be available for adjusting hue and color temperature during video recording too.
Thanks to improvements made within Health Connect features in this update users can share health records between different apps using FHIR format easily. Additionally, accessibility features have received significant upgrades this time around.
According to Google: “Android 16 enables users with LE Audio hearing aids to switch between built-in microphones on these devices and their phone’s microphone during calls.” More details about Android 16 along with an expected release date may be revealed at Google's upcoming I/O developers event scheduled for may.
