Tag: Developer Preview

  • Google Pixel 6 and Newer Phones Get First Android 16 Update

    Google Pixel 6 and Newer Phones Get First Android 16 Update

    Google has just released the initial version of Android 16 for download. As is customary, the company has launched a Developer Preview first. Therefore, it’s advisable not to install Android 16 on your regular or work devices just yet.

    Focus on Developers

    As expected, Google is currently concentrating on changes that cater to developers. However, their latest post on the Android Developers Blog does share some information for users. Notably, Google has confirmed that stable versions of Android 16 should start rolling out in Q2 of 2025. In simpler terms, you can anticipate major OS updates for Pixel devices around April, May, or June.

    More Devices Supported

    Interestingly, it seems that Google intends to expand the availability of Android 16 to more devices than initially thought. The Developer Preview 1 can be downloaded on the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro (curr. $190 – renewed on Amazon), even though official support for these devices ended last month. For the moment, there’s no assurance that these models will get stable Android 16 updates.

    Future Updates for the Pixel 6a

    The introduction of the Pixel 6a might allow its flagship counterparts to receive one more Android update than originally anticipated. As Mishaal Rahman points out, the official software support for the Pixel 6a will wrap up after Android 16 is expected to be released. Therefore, Google will need to make Android 16 compatible with its Tensor G1 chip, which also powers the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. As a result, there’s a possibility that all models in the Pixel 6 series could get Android 16, but it may take some time before that happens.

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  • The first Android 15 Developer Preview is now being released by Google.

    The first Android 15 Developer Preview is now being released by Google.

    The first developer preview version of Android 15 has been released today, featuring minor privacy improvements and new features. As it is specifically designed for developers, it may not be suitable for daily driving so better wait for a little if you want to try it on your Pixel device. Google announced they might release the public beta version between March and April.

    Android 15 release timeline

    Android 15 will allow you to have more control over the ads you see in a more detailed manner. A new menu named “Ads” has been added under the “Privacy & security” section in settings, where you can check which apps are tracking your activity on your phone to show ads.

    FLEDGE API for app tracking prevention

    Some apps can provide personalized ads by tracking your activity on your phone. With the FLEDGE API in Android 15, you can now prevent apps from tracking you. This doesn’t mean that the ads on your device will be completely removed, but it ensures that your data will not be shared with the chosen 3rd party app.

    Partial screen recording

    Another new feature in Android 15 is the ability to perform partial screen recording. Instead of recording or casting the entire screen while screen recording, you can now record only a specific part of the app. This can be useful for users who frequently record their phone screen or have to cast their phone screen during a video call.

    Better camera optimization for 3rd party apps

    Another welcomed improvement is that Google is finally working on a better camera optimization for 3rd party apps. Images captured in a low-light environment will now be processed in real-time, giving you a simultaneous bright preview, just like it appears after tapping the shutter button. 3rd party apps can also benefit from improved preview images.

    The bad news is that the Android 15 Developer Preview is currently only available for the Pixel 6 series and newer Pixels. This means that the software support for devices in the Pixel 5 series has officially ended. Android 15 will be available for Pixel 6a, Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet.

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