Tag: Android 16

  • Google Pixel 10 Boosts Speed with Android 16 Performance Mode

    Google Pixel 10 Boosts Speed with Android 16 Performance Mode

    Key Takeaways

    1. Expensive hardware isn’t the only way to improve device performance; software optimizations can also make a significant difference.
    2. Changes in Android 16, particularly the “Parallel Module Loading: Add Performance Mode,” aim to enhance speed by improving how kernel modules load.
    3. Loading times for modules have reportedly decreased by 30% on the Pixel 10 and 25% on the 2023 Pixel Fold.
    4. These performance improvements are part of the AOSP code, suggesting that other Android devices may benefit from them as well.
    5. Overall, software advancements in Android 16 could lead to a smoother and faster experience for users, highlighting the importance of continuous software development.

    Expensive hardware isn’t always the key to getting better performance from a device. Sometimes, improving the operating system or the apps that run on it can lead to notable speed enhancements. This might be the case for Android 16 users, as noted by Android expert Mishaal Rahman, who found some interesting code changes in the Android Open Source Project (AOSP), as reported by Android Authority.

    Changes Indicating Performance Boost

    One notable change is titled “Parallel Module Loading: Add Performance Mode,” which involves enhancing the parallel loading of kernel modules after the Linux kernel has started. The title hints at a significant boost in speed, and the description (shown in the screenshot below) cites some impressive percentage improvements. Interestingly, it also references a Google phone that hasn’t been released yet.

    Reduced Loading Times on Specific Models

    The loading time for modules is said to have dropped by 30% on a Pixel 10 and 25% on the 2023 Pixel Fold. However, these numbers should be approached with skepticism, as they apply only to a segment of the entire boot sequence. Since this modification is part of the AOSP code, it’s likely that other Android devices will also see advantages from this update in the near future, not just Google’s Pixel lineup. Consequently, smartphones running Android 16 should experience a faster reboot process compared to those with Android 15 and earlier versions.

    General Implications for Android Users

    In conclusion, while hardware upgrades can certainly enhance performance, software optimization plays a crucial role too. The advancements found in Android 16 could lead to a smoother and quicker experience for users across various devices, demonstrating the importance of ongoing improvements in software development.

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    Google Pixel 10 Boosts Speed with Android 16 Performance Mode

     

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  • Samsung Dex-Style Desktop Mode for All Android 16 Phones

    Samsung Dex-Style Desktop Mode for All Android 16 Phones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Desktop View Feature: Android 16 is testing a new Desktop View feature that allows smartphones to operate in a desktop format and connect to external displays.

    2. Existing Alternatives: Similar features are already available in some Android devices, such as Samsung’s DeX and Motorola’s “Ready For,” enabling a desktop-like experience.

    3. Developer Options: Android has a developer option for desktop mode, but many phones do not support it or allow external display connections.

    4. Launch Timeline: Desktop View is currently in Android 16 Beta 3, with a tight timeline for completion before the official launch in June; it may be delayed to Android 17 in 2026.

    5. All-in-One Device Vision: There is a growing aspiration among tech enthusiasts for smartphones to function as all-in-one devices with full desktop capabilities.

    A new test feature might allow users to swap out their laptop for their smartphone.

    Desktop View in Testing

    Desktop View, which enables Android smartphones to operate in a desktop format, is currently being tested in Android 16. This feature will let users interact with their phone in a more conventional desktop style. It can also connect to external displays, turning an Android 16 smartphone into something resembling a standard computer.

    Existing Similar Features

    Some Android devices already offer comparable functionalities, like Samsung’s DeX and Motorola’s “Ready For” modes. When these phones are linked to an external display, they can create a windowed desktop environment that functions more like Windows or desktop Linux, rather than relying solely on a touchscreen interface.

    Developer Options and Limitations

    It’s important to mention that Android does have a developer option for desktop mode, but most phones either lack support for it or don’t allow for external display connections.

    According to Android Authority, Desktop View is reportedly available in Android 16 Beta 3. Google is working hard to finalize the feature, but there’s a tight timeline for it to be ready before the official launch of Android 16, which is anticipated in June this year. If not, it might be included in a future update or pushed back until Android 17 arrives in 2026.

    The Dream of All-in-One Devices

    As smartphones have grown more powerful and efficient, the vision of using a smartphone as a genuine “all-in-one” device with a desktop environment has been a long-held aspiration for many tech fans.

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  • Google Pixel 10 Pro XL Renders Show Similar Design to Pixel 9 Pro XL

    Google Pixel 10 Pro XL Renders Show Similar Design to Pixel 9 Pro XL

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel 10 Pro XL features a 6.8-inch display, similar to the Pixel 10 Pro.
    2. The design remains consistent with the recognizable camera layout and a temperature sensor.
    3. Camera sensor details are still pending but expected to be revealed soon.
    4. The device will be powered by Google’s Tensor G5 SoC, marking a shift from Exynos chips.
    5. Significant performance enhancements are anticipated from software updates with Android 16.

    Last year saw the comeback of a Pixel phone sporting the XL label. The Pixel 9 Pro XL essentially functioned as a Pixel 9 Pro but with a bigger display. If the latest renders from OnLeaks and Android Headlines are correct, it seems like we’re in for a similar situation this time around.

    Screen and Design

    The Pixel 10 Pro XL is essentially a Pixel 10 Pro equipped with a 6.8-inch display, as shown in the latest images of the Pixel 10 Pro. Everything else seems to be identical between the two devices, featuring the recognizable camera design and a temperature sensor positioned beside it. Details regarding the camera sensors themselves haven’t been revealed yet, but we should expect that information soon.

    Performance Specs

    Just like the standard Pixel 10 and the Pixel 10 Pro, the Pixel 10 Pro XL will be powered by a Tensor G5 SoC. Differing from its earlier models that utilized Exynos chips, this one marks Google’s first true in-house creation, incorporating stock Arm Cortex CPU cores, an Imagination Technologies GPU, and a MediaTek 5G modem. However, the significant enhancements are likely to come from software updates with Android 16 and some exclusive features for Pixel users.

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    Google Pixel 10 Pro XL Renders Show Similar Design to Pixel 9 Pro XLGoogle Pixel 10 Pro XL Renders Show Similar Design to Pixel 9 Pro XL

     

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  • Google Pixel 10: New Android 16 Features Unveiled in Videos

    Google Pixel 10: New Android 16 Features Unveiled in Videos

    Key Takeaways

    1. Android 16’s developer previews and beta versions have been released, with major user features expected at Google I/O 2025 on May 20, 2025.
    2. New lock screen widgets, previously available on Google tablets, will be introduced to Pixel phones with Android 16 QPR1.
    3. The lock screen widget feature will also be included in the Android Open Source Project (AOSP), allowing other manufacturers to adopt it.
    4. Android is aiming to enhance its desktop capabilities, allowing users to mirror and extend their display on external monitors with improved multi-display features in Android 16.
    5. Users will have more control over their multi-display setup, including adjusting positioning, using input devices, and customizing settings like refresh rates and text/icon sizing.

    The first developer previews and beta versions for Android 16 have been released, although many of the new features important for regular users likely won’t be revealed until the Google I/O 2025 conference scheduled for May 20, 2025. Android specialist Mishaal Rahman has found a way to enable two of these upcoming features ahead of time on the latest Android 16 Beta 2.1.

    New Lock Screen Widgets

    Users of the Pixel tablet might already know about the first noteworthy feature: lock screen widgets. This functionality has been on Google tablets since Android 15, but it hasn’t appeared on smartphones running the current version of Google’s operating system. In a recent announcement, Google stated this handy feature will be coming to Pixel phones starting with Android 16 QPR1, which is the first quarterly update following the Android 16 launch, internally referred to as 25Q3.

    Expanding Access and Functionality

    Even more exciting is that Google plans to include this new feature in the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) during the summer, making it accessible to other Android manufacturers if they choose to implement it in their own interfaces. Mishaal provides a glimpse of how this feature could look on a smartphone in the video below, although some aspects may still be altered appearance-wise and function-wise before the final rollout.

    In a move similar to Apple, Google aims to strengthen Android’s position as an alternative to traditional desktop operating systems like Windows, macOS, or Linux. Evidence of this shift can already be seen in Android 15, which allows users to mirror their display content on an external monitor. The Pixel 10 Pro could serve as an even more efficient temporary desktop alternative due to advancements in the multi-display feature set to debut in Android 16. Rahman also got to tinker with this newly activated feature ahead of time.

    Enhanced Multi-Display Experience

    The video shared below reveals that in the future, users will not just mirror their Pixel screen on a second display; they will also be able to extend it. The “External Display” section in Android settings has seen enhancements, allowing users to adjust the positioning of the second display in relation to their smartphone. Plus, input devices like a mouse or touchscreen can be used to smoothly transition the cursor between the screens. Google is also working on dedicated settings for refresh rates and text/icon sizing. However, it’s still unclear when exactly this feature will become available; like the widgets, it may be included in a future Android 16 feature drop.

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    Google Pixel 10: New Android 16 Features Unveiled in Videos

     

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  • One UI 7 Delayed: One UI 8 Release May Be Sooner Than Expected

    One UI 7 Delayed: One UI 8 Release May Be Sooner Than Expected

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung’s rollout of One UI 7 has been slow, causing frustration among users.
    2. Concerns exist about the timely launch of One UI 8 due to delays with One UI 7.
    3. Early reports suggest One UI 8 may debut sooner than expected, potentially in the third quarter of 2025.
    4. Android 16 is in development, with Google releasing public betas and planning a stable version by the end of Q2 2025.
    5. Users with older Galaxy models may have to wait until at least April for the One UI 7 stable update.

    From being a leader among Android brands in rolling out the newest OS updates to now lagging behind, Samsung has left many users disheartened with One UI 7. The rollout of this stable version has been frustratingly slow, with no clear timeline provided and not a single Galaxy device having received the update yet—much to the annoyance of fans. However, the outlook for One UI 8 may not be as grim.

    Concerns Over One UI 8’s Timeliness

    The significant delays in the One UI 7.0 rollout have sparked skepticism regarding Samsung’s ability to launch One UI 8.0 on schedule. Thankfully, early reports suggest a more promising scenario, according to reliable Samsung insider Ice Universe (@UniverseIce) on Twitter/X.

    Ice Universe indicates that One UI 8 will likely debut sooner than anticipated. Although specific release details were not disclosed, this hints that the rollout might not be as delayed as One UI 7, which faced a delay of about a quarter. This assumption appears valid, especially with Google’s fast-paced release schedule for Android 16.

    Android 16 Development Progress

    Android 16 is already in development. Google has rolled out two public betas that are accessible for eligible Pixel device users. The stable version is expected to launch by the end of the second quarter. Samsung is likely to unveil One UI 8 sometime in the third quarter of 2025.

    Also check out: New features coming in Samsung’s One UI 7

    If you own a Galaxy S25 device, you’re probably already enjoying the benefits of One UI 7. However, those with older Galaxy models may have to wait until at least April for the stable update. For mid-range and budget Galaxy devices, the waiting period could be even longer. If you find yourself in the One UI 7 waiting line, take a look at the list of eligible devices to make sure yours is prepped for the forthcoming upgrade.

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    One UI 7 Delayed: One UI 8 Release May Be Sooner Than Expected
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  • Android 16 Beta 2 Update Brings New Camera Features for Pixel 9 Pro

    Android 16 Beta 2 Update Brings New Camera Features for Pixel 9 Pro

    Key Takeaways

    1. Android 16 is expected to launch between April and June 2025, with a second public beta now available.
    2. New camera features include saving Ultra-HDR photos in the HEIC format and adjustable exposure settings in automatic mode.
    3. Enhanced white balance options allow users to modify tint and color temperature for better photo quality.
    4. Quick access to Google Wallet can be achieved by double-pressing the power button.
    5. The beta version is compatible with recent Google devices, including Pixel 6 and later models, and users should back up their data before installation.

    Since Google has sharpened its software release timeline, Android 16 is projected to launch in the second quarter of 2025, specifically between April and June. In line with this, Google has rolled out the second public beta version that features several new improvements. To be more precise, this beta mainly hones in on the camera application.

    New Camera Features

    The update now allows users to save Ultra-HDR photos in the HEIC format, which is more efficient and takes up less space. Lastly, photographers can now tweak exposure settings while in automatic mode. Instead of being limited to either full auto or manual, users can modify specific settings like sensor sensitivity or shutter speed in automatic exposure mode if they choose, while all other settings remain automatically adjusted.

    Enhanced White Balance Options

    Google has also added more ways to modify the white balance. Besides adjusting the color temperature, the second beta of Android 16 introduces a tint option that can help counter challenging or vibrant lighting conditions, or even give photos a unique flair. This feature is particularly vital when capturing JPEGs instead of RAW images, since white balance adjustments can’t be made after the photo is taken.

    Quick Access to Google Wallet

    Another interesting addition is the ability to access Google Wallet by double-pressing the power button, which serves as an alternative shortcut to the camera app. The latest public beta version of Android 16 works with a variety of recent Google devices, including the Pixel 6 and later models, as well as the new Pixel 9 Pro and the Pixel Tablet. Those interested in testing the beta can sign up on Google’s official site. As always, it’s highly advisable to perform a complete backup before installing any beta version of an operating system.

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    Android 16 Beta 2 Update Brings New Camera Features for Pixel 9 Pro

     

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  • Android 16 Public Beta Now Available for Pixel 9 Pro and More

    Android 16 Public Beta Now Available for Pixel 9 Pro and More

    Google has launched the initial public beta version of Android 16 today, just two months after the developer beta was released in November. If you own a Google smartphone from the Pixel 6, 7, 8, or 9 series (starting at $649 on Amazon), you can now register for the beta program and get an early look at the upcoming major operating system update. The beta is also accessible for the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet.

    Important Considerations Before Installing

    As is typical with beta software, there may be some bugs present, so it’s advised to make a comprehensive backup of all your data prior to installing the Android 16 update. Additionally, it might not be wise to put this update on your main device or daily use phone. This first beta release mostly brings a handful of new features as Google concentrates on the technical foundations of the new Android version. More substantial updates and key features are expected to be revealed in the weeks leading up to the official release.

    Release Timeline and New Features

    Per Google’s revised schedule, the arrival of Android 16 is planned for the second quarter of 2025, which indicates that the update should be rolled out by the end of June. The first public beta includes live notifications, which are akin to those found on iPhones, and are updated in real-time to display the latest football scores or the estimated arrival time of an Uber, for example.

    In Android 16, applications must function in both portrait and landscape orientations and automatically adapt to the layout of larger screens typical of foldable smartphones and tablets. Applications that show unsightly black bars on the sides are no longer allowed. Android 16 also introduces support for the Advanced Professional Video (APV) codec, enabling the rendering of nearly lossless 10-bit videos at data rates reaching up to 2 Gbps.

    Google’s new operating system continues to evolve, promising a more refined experience for users in the future.

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    Android 16 Public Beta Now Available for Pixel 9 Pro and MoreAndroid 16 Public Beta Now Available for Pixel 9 Pro and More
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  • Android 16 to Feature Split-Screen Mode Like OnePlus OxygenOS

    Android 16 to Feature Split-Screen Mode Like OnePlus OxygenOS

    Android 16 is in the Developer Preview phase at the moment. It has been a full month since Google launched the second Developer Preview of this upcoming operating system, and there seems to be a new feature in its code that may delight users of tablets and larger screens.

    Multitasking Inspired by OnePlus

    As reported by Android Authority, the newest Developer Preview includes a multitasking feature that takes inspiration from OnePlus’ Open Canvas. This could be a huge enhancement for devices with larger screens and foldable phones, since OnePlus’ Open Canvas is known to be the top multitasking solution and provides a smarter way to use split-screen capabilities.

    Three Apps at Once

    Basically, Android 16 may permit users to view three apps simultaneously on their tablets. In the OnePlus model, two apps occupy 90% of the display, while a third app is in the remaining 10%. A quick tap on the smaller window brings it to the forefront, allowing for a seamless transition in layout. Google appears to be experimenting with a similar setup in Android 16.

    The code found in Android 16 DP2 indicates a “flexible” split-screen mode is under development. Mishaal Rahman from Android Authority was able to get this feature running on his Pixel device, but he points out that it’s still in an unfinished state and doesn’t correctly manage app splitting at this stage.

    Future of the Feature

    Google continues to evaluate this functionality, and it remains uncertain if it will be ready for the final version of Android 16. If it is completed on schedule, it could be made available for all Android smartphones and tablets, with manufacturers like Samsung likely to benefit from these enhancements for their foldable devices that open like books.

    Android 16 is projected to achieve platform stability in the first half of this year, followed by a full rollout later on. Should this feature be finalized, users might receive it via updates from their device manufacturers.

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  • Xiaomi Phones Likely to Receive HyperOS 3 Update Soon

    Xiaomi Phones Likely to Receive HyperOS 3 Update Soon

    While the rollout of HyperOS 2 is still ongoing, it seems Xiaomi has started to focus on its next significant update, HyperOS 3.0, which is expected to be based on Android 16. This new version is anticipated to bring enhancements in performance, design changes, a stronger Xiaomi ecosystem, AI upgrades, and many more features and improvements.

    Possible Release Timeline

    The HyperOS 3 update might arrive sooner than last year’s version since Android 16 is progressing rapidly. It’s important to check if your Xiaomi device qualifies for this major update. XiaomiTime has compiled a list of devices that are likely to receive the HyperOS 3.0 update, including a variety of Xiaomi phones and tablets.

    List of Eligible Devices

    Xiaomi Devices
    – [Xiaomi 15 Series]
    – Xiaomi 15
    – Xiaomi 15 Pro
    – Xiaomi 15 Ultra
    – [Xiaomi 14 Series]
    – Xiaomi 14
    – Xiaomi 14 Pro
    – Xiaomi 14 Ultra
    – [Xiaomi 13 Series]
    – Xiaomi 13
    – Xiaomi 13 Pro
    – Xiaomi 13 Lite
    – [Xiaomi 12 Series]
    – Xiaomi 12
    – Xiaomi 12 5G
    – Xiaomi 12 Pro
    – Xiaomi 12 Pro (Dimensity)
    – Xiaomi 12 Lite
    – Xiaomi 12 Lite NE
    – Xiaomi 12T
    – Xiaomi 12T Pro
    – Xiaomi 12S
    – Xiaomi 12S Pro
    – Xiaomi 12S Ultra

    Redmi Devices
    – [Redmi Note Series]
    – Redmi Note 14 (4G/5G)
    – Redmi Note 14 Pro (4G/5G)
    – Redmi Note 14 Pro+ (4G/5G)
    – Redmi Note 13 (4G/5G)
    – Redmi Note 13 Pro (4G/5G)
    – Redmi Note 13 Pro+
    – Redmi Note 13R
    – Redmi Note 13R Pro
    – Redmi Note 12 4G
    – Redmi Note 12 4G NFC
    – Redmi Note 12S
    – Redmi Note 12 Turbo
    – Redmi Note 12T Pro

    – [Redmi Number Series]
    – Redmi 12
    – Redmi 13
    – Redmi 13C
    – Redmi 14C
    – Redmi 14C 5G

    – [Redmi A Series]
    – Redmi A3 Pro
    – Redmi A4 5G

    – [Redmi K Series]
    – Redmi K80
    – Redmi K80 Pro
    – Redmi K70
    – Redmi K70 Pro
    – Redmi K70 Ultra
    – Redmi K70E
    – Redmi K60
    – Redmi K60 Pro
    – Redmi K60 Ultra
    – Redmi K60E
    – Redmi K50 Ultra

    – [Redmi Turbo Series]
    – Redmi Turbo 4
    – Redmi Turbo 3

    Poco Devices
    – [Poco F Series]
    – Poco F7
    – Poco F7 Pro
    – Poco F7 Ultra
    – Poco F6
    – Poco F6 Pro
    – Poco F5
    – Poco F5 Pro

    – [Poco X Series]
    – Poco X7
    – Poco X7 Pro
    – Poco X7 Pro (Iron Man edition)
    – Poco X6 5G
    – Poco X6 Pro 5G

    – [Poco M Series]
    – Poco M7 Pro 5G
    – Poco M6 Pro (4G/5G)
    – Poco M6 (4G/5G)

    – [Poco C Series]
    – Poco C75 (4G/5G)
    – Poco C65

    [Xiaomi MIX and Foldables]
    – Xiaomi Mix Fold 4
    – Xiaomi Mix Fold 3
    – Xiaomi Mix Fold 2
    – Xiaomi Mix Flip
    – Xiaomi Mix Flip 2

    [Xiaomi and Redmi Tablets]
    – Xiaomi Pad 7
    – Xiaomi Pad 7 Pro
    – Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro
    – Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro
    – Redmi Pad SE
    – Redmi Pad Pro
    – Redmi Pad SE 8.7
    – Redmi Pad Pro 5G

    This is an initial compilation of Xiaomi devices that are likely to receive the HyperOS 3.0 update. The final list may vary slightly, so if your device isn’t listed, please wait for the official announcement.

    Anticipated Quick Arrival of HyperOS 3

    The rollout of HyperOS 2.0, which is based on Android 15, began in October and is still in progress for eligible devices. However, HyperOS 3.0 is set to be released much faster, thanks to the accelerated development of Android 16.

    Google has already put out the first developer preview of Android 16, with the second one expected this month. According to the timeline, several public beta versions will be available until March, leading to the platform stability phase.

    While Google hasn’t disclosed an exact release date, leaks indicate that Android 16 might launch in early June. In contrast, Android 15 was released in October last year. Therefore, the new operating system is coming much earlier, prompting brands like Xiaomi to prepare for the Android 16-based HyperOS software as quickly as they can.

    Currently, we don’t have an official release date for HyperOS 3.0, but we can make an educated guess. Historically, Xiaomi tends to launch new versions of HyperOS in the same month as the corresponding Android OS. For instance, HyperOS 2.0 was released on October 29, just a week after Android 15. Following this pattern, HyperOS 3.0 could potentially debut in June 2025.

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  • Samsung One UI 8 Leak Suggests Return of Decal Shader Feature

    Samsung One UI 8 Leak Suggests Return of Decal Shader Feature

    Samsung has not yet launched One UI 7, which is built on Android 15, while Google has already put out the Android 16 Developer Preview and is expected to release Android 16 sooner than anticipated.

    Development of One UI 8

    It appears that Samsung is catching up in the software area for One UI, which will be based on Android 16. SmartPrix has discovered hints of One UI 8 (One_UI_8_0) related to Android 16 throughout Samsung’s software framework. It’s common for smartphone makers to begin testing upcoming updates ahead of time, and these signs of One UI 8 indicate that the software is progressing well in line with Android 16’s development.

    New Features on the Horizon

    A notable detail from the report is the possibility that Samsung might reintroduce a feature called “Decal Shader,” which would bring back some elements from the TouchWiz days. This feature, which has been mostly missing since One UI’s debut, is thought to enhance visual transitions on the home screen when compared to One UI 7.

    However, the precise way this feature will be implemented is still somewhat uncertain. The reputable leaker Ice Universe has hinted that it could serve as a new lock screen animation featuring a ripple effect, providing a contemporary take on past design styles.

    > I THINK IT IS PREPARED FOR THIS EFFECT. HTTPS://T.CO/BIYJTWDZYO PIC.TWITTER.COM/KE1YUIDAOG
    > — ICE UNIVERSE (@UniverseIce) January 9, 2025

    Release Timeline for One UI 8

    If this is indeed accurate, the feature could usher in smoother and more visually captivating animations to Samsung’s user interface, enhancing its current emphasis on customization and fluidity.

    Even with these early hints, One UI 8 is still a while away from launch. Samsung plans to reveal the Galaxy S25 series equipped with One UI 7 on January 22, and it is likely that the One UI 8 update will be saved for a software rollout mid-cycle, allowing plenty of time for the company to fine-tune the new features.

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