Google has officially rolled out its Android 16 update to compatible Pixel devices, with other phone brands set to receive it later. The update introduces improvements to notifications, more security features, as well as enhanced support for hearing devices.
One of the highlights of Android 16 is a live updates feature for notifications. This feature displays a progress bar in the notification for supported ride-share and food delivery apps, which allows the user to immediately see the status of their orders or rides without opening the app. In addition to this, notifications from the same app are now automatically grouped together for better organisation.
Android 16 also brings the Advanced Protection mode, which Google claims is its strongest form of mobile protection. The user can access this feature by opening the Settings app and navigating to the Advanced Protection page. When toggled on, it enables all of the available security features, including anti-theft measures and protection against malicious apps.
For those with hearing aids, the update adds the ability to switch to the phone’s microphone for calls for clearer audio. Native control for hearing devices has also been added, allowing the user to adjust the volume using their phone.
Another new addition is a desktop windowing feature, not unlike Samsung’s DeX. In fact, Google has worked closely with the company to develop this feature for Android 16. At the moment, desktop windowing is not yet available for general users, although a preview can be accessed through the developer program. The feature will be released later in the year, likely along with the Material 3 Expressive redesign.
(Source: Google blog)
