Android 16 for Google Pixel devices is available for download

Android 16 is now available for the Pixel 6 series and the Pixel tablet. However, two of the biggest changes are missing from the first version.

June 11, 2025 3 0

As expected, Google has released the first stable version of Android 16 for its Pixel series. The update is now available for the Pixel 6 phones and newer smartphones, as well as the Pixel tablet. Two of Android 16’s biggest changes are not part of this first stable version. The new Material 3 Expressive theme and new desktop mode will come later.

Google has also released the developer-focused beta version of Android 16 QPR 2, which includes the new Desktop Mode. It requires a DisplayPort connection to the external monitor and allows running multiple apps with resizable windows. The taskbar shows running apps and an app drawer.

Connected smartphones function independently of the external display. If you’re using a tablet like Google’s Pixel Tablet, the desktop session will extend across both displays, allowing you to drag elements across both the tablet screen and the connected display.

Android 16 Stable also supports adaptive apps. These ensure that apps scale and function correctly regardless of your smartphone’s screen size, orientation, and form factor. This should be a major step forward for foldable devices. Notifications from a single app are now grouped for clarity.

Google also revises its notification management with live updates-dynamic notifications for ongoing activities such as navigation, driving services and food deliveries. These notifications are displayed on your blocking screen and in the system status area.

User of hearing aids receive a new native switch that offers battery status, default settings, microphone selection and volume control. Users can now use the microphone of their smartphone to ensure better speech intelligibility in louder environments.

With the extended protection, users can protect their personal data from online attacks, harmful apps, unsafe websites and fraudulent calls.

tablets receive a new desktop window option. This function enables users to open several app windows in a desktop-like surface, to move, move and adapt their size. This function will be introduced on compatible devices later this year.

Other functions of Android 16 Stable are custom keyboard shortcuts, HDR screenshots, adaptive refresh frequency control and identity test.