Tech Desk 
Nov 20, 2024
Google released the first developer preview of Android 16 just a month after launching Android 15. The preview announced is available for Pixel 6 and newer devices.
Developers can now test their apps with Android 16’s exciting new features, such as Audio Sharing, Notification Cooldown, and Health Records.
This release is part of Google’s updated strategy to roll out Android updates more frequently. The company has confirmed two updates in 2025, with Android 16 set for Q2 and a minor update planned for Q4.
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Android 16 features in developer preview
- Embedded Photo Picker:
- The photo picker gets an upgrade, allowing apps to seamlessly access images and videos from local and cloud storage without an overlay.
- Health Records:
- This feature allows third-party apps to access health data, like vaccination records and lab results, through Health Connect, with user permission.
- Notification Cooldown:
- Reduces notification volume and frequency for up to two minutes if multiple alerts arrive quickly. Important alerts like calls, alarms, and priority conversations remain unaffected.
- Audio Sharing:
- Users can now connect multiple Bluetooth headphones to one device for shared playback. However, this requires Bluetooth LE-compatible devices.
- Other updates:
- Android 16 also brings new privacy tools under Privacy Sandbox and minor UI improvements for a smoother user experience.
Devices compatible with Android 16 developer preview
This preview is available for developers using Pixel 6 and newer models. It can also be tested on the Android Emulator.
Android 16 introduces features that improve privacy, enhance user experience, and add functionality. Developers can start testing these updates to prepare their apps for the next big Android release.
