Earlier this week, Google confirmed that it will launch the next big version of Android sooner than expected. This confirms earlier speculations, with the stable version of Android 16 set to roll out between April and June 2025. In a post on the Android Developers Blog, Google stated that this new timeline should coincide with the release of new Android smartphones.
Timing for OEMs
In theory, this timing should enable original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to release new smartphones equipped with the latest Android version. But, of course, this doesn't guarantee that it will happen. Recently, there have been rumors surrounding the Pixel 9a, indicating that it might not meet this timeline. Reports suggest that the Pixel 9a could be launched in March 2025.
Pixel 9a's Release
As a result, the upcoming mid-range Pixel 9a will follow what the Pixel 9 has done (currently priced at $799 on Amazon), which missed getting Android 15 by roughly two months. Interestingly, the Pixel 9a seems to be the only phone from Google that will debut with Android 15, breaking from previous patterns. For context, the Pixel 9 series was released with Android 14, similar to its older models. In contrast, Google's upcoming flagship devices are expected to come pre-installed with Android 16.
Google via 9to5Google.
