Google has officially rolled out Android 16, the latest version of its mobile operating system, along with a fresh set of updates for its Pixel smartphones under the June Pixel Feature Drop. The release comes just a day after Apple unveiled its own software upgrades at its annual developers conference.
Android 16 introduces a wide range of improvements aimed at enhancing user experience, security, and customisation, while also integrating more artificial intelligence-powered features.
Key Features of Android 16
One of the most notable changes is the addition of live notifications on the lock screen, similar to iOS, allowing users to view real-time updates without unlocking their phones. Google has also introduced its Material 3 “Expressive” design language, offering a more dynamic and personalised user interface.
Security has received a major boost with advanced anti-theft protection, scam detection, and a new Advanced Protection Mode, particularly useful for high-profile users and public figures.
Android 16 also adds support for Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) audio devices, enabling better call quality by using external mics instead of the phone’s built-in microphone. Additionally, the update includes custom keyboard shortcuts for tablets and desktop-style windowing, expected to roll out later this year.
Messaging and Media Enhancements
The update brings new features to Google Messages, including group chat support for RCS (Rich Communication Services). Users can now assign icons to group chats and mute them for specific durations. There are also new options for notification grouping, adaptive refresh rate, and HDR screenshots, which aim to improve overall usability.
Google Photos has also received a major upgrade. The app will now offer AI-powered editing suggestions, including tools like erase, move, or “reimagine” specific parts of an image, making it easier for users to enhance their photos directly on their phones.
Pixel Feature Drop Highlights
In addition to Android 16, Google is rolling out new features exclusively for Pixel smartphones. These include a Pixel VIPs widget, which allows users to track recent messages and calls with key contacts, including updates from apps like WhatsApp.
Pixel phones are also gaining enhanced live captions, capable of describing non-verbal sounds such as yawning or whispering in real-time video content.
Users will now be able to create stickers directly from text prompts using the Gboard keyboard, and the Recorder app will offer AI-generated summaries in French and German. Google is also testing its Emergency SOS via satellite feature in Australia, which could expand to other regions in the future.
Google Wallet and Enterprise Features
Android 16 introduces corporate badge support in Google Wallet, making it easier for professionals to store and access their work IDs. The platform also supports transit payments on Wear OS smartwatches, enabling hands-free ticketing for public transport.
Enterprise users will benefit from deeper integration of Google’s Gemini AI chatbot within Google Docs, which can now summarise content, translate text, and offer insights. Chrome for Android is also being updated to improve navigation through PDFs with linked documents.
Battery Health and Accessibility
Google is adding a battery health indicator to the Pixel 8a and newer models, helping users monitor long-term battery performance. Meanwhile, older models such as the Pixel 5 and beyond are getting a new AI-powered object identification feature via the Magnifier app, improving accessibility.
With Android holding a dominant share of India’s smartphone market, the new features in Android 16 and Pixel phones are expected to impact a wide range of users from casual smartphone owners to professionals and digital creators. The integration of AI tools, enhanced security, and user-friendly design continues to position Google as a key innovator in the mobile space.
