Android 16 represents one of the most important changes on Google's mobile platform in recent years. The new version has already begun rolling out to Google Pixel devices, and will gradually reach other manufacturers, although not all phones will receive the same features or at the same time. Among its most notable features are: A deep redesign of several key applications and the integration of features that significantly improve the user experience.
Although Android updates are usually surrounded by anticipation, this time The leap comes with some ideas inherited from other manufacturers and a renewed focus on customization and productivity.Below, we review all the key features of Android 16, the new features that will be most noticeable in everyday use, and the models that are compatible or left out.
Live Updates: Real-time events and notifications, Now Bar style
One of the most relevant features of Android 16 is the arrival of 'Live Updates', which display dynamic information about active eventsClearly inspired by Samsung's Activity Bar (Now Bar), this feature allows you to track deliveries, navigation routes, or ongoing calls without having to open the corresponding app. presents real-time information directly on the lock screen, in the status bar via a floating chip, or as more detailed pop-up windows if we need them.
Google has detailed that only Certain apps will be able to use Live Updates, prioritizing time-sensitive user-initiated activities such as Google Maps navigation, order tracking, ride-hailing app journeys, or active calls. They have expressly excluded use for advertising, promotions, chat messages, or generic alerts, with the goal of not overloading users or turning them into another source of spam.
Also, Android 16 has set clear rules for developers: If the user dismisses a notification, the app will not be able to display the same alert again. For now, this feature It is only available on some Pixel models and in beta phase, although its final deployment is expected in the coming months through future updates.
Redesign of the Phone app with Material 3 Expressive
Another powerful novelty comes with the Design refresh in Google's Phone app, which opts for a much more modern style based on Material 3 Expressive. The interface goes from three to six main tabs: Home, Dialer, Voicemail, Contacts, Favorites and Recents. The goal is to simplify navigation and offer shortcuts to the most used functionsThe new "Home" tab displays favorite contacts at the top and call history below, making it easy to quickly reference and access relevant information.
El call log has been extensively modified: Repeated calls from the same number are no longer grouped together, but are displayed chronologically, and recent entries appear in boxes with rounded corners, aligned with the new visual style. Profile photos of contacts also change format, moving to more angular frames to be easier to identify. In addition, A new horizontal gesture is introduced to answer or reject calls, which provides a more intuitive experience, especially on large screens.
These changes will arrive first on Pixel phones in the September update, and it is likely that the rest of the brands will receive them gradually afterward, as they adapt their own interfaces and customizations.
DeX-style desktop mode: Android 16 on your monitor
Google has taken a further step in the convergence between mobile and computer with the launch of its own native desktop mode. This feature, which is very reminiscent of the Samsung DeX experience, allows you to connect a compatible Pixel phone to an external display and work with a classic window environment, with a taskbar, app drawer, and floating windows that can be arranged as desired.
Android 16 desktop mode is present in the beta version for the Pixels of families 8 and 9 that support video output. The system adapts the interface for comfortable control with a mouse and keyboard, and it's possible to run apps on both the phone and the external display simultaneously. Although it hasn't yet reached the level of maturity or the wireless options of DeX, It is already a functional alternative for those who want to take the office anywhere without relying on additional equipment.
For now, the function Can only be used via USB C cable supporting video output and requires the activation of developer options and the latest beta of Android 16. It has not yet reached tablets or is present outside of the Pixel models, but everything indicates that it will improve in future revisions of the system.
Compatible phones and Android 16 deployment
As usual, Android 16 has arrived first on Pixel devices, with the most relevant manufacturers expected to roll out the update to their latest models over the coming months. Compatible Pixel devices already range from the Pixel 6 to the Pixel 9 series, including variants like the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet. Brands like Xiaomi will also be integrating Android 16 under their HyperOS 3 layer, although some features may be left out depending on the model and update policy.
In the case of HyperOS, for example, the base of the system is updated with each new version of Android, so Some of the notable new features could be seen on compatible Xiaomi phones.As for OnePlus, the new version will be distributed as OxygenOS 16, but only certain high-end and mid-range models will receive the update. Older or entry-level models, such as the OnePlus 10 Pro or the Nord N family, will no longer receive new versions of the operating system, although they will continue to receive security patches for a while.
The global rollout will be gradual and will depend on both the manufacturer and each brand's support policy. Therefore, Not all devices will automatically be able to enjoy the new features of Android 16., especially advanced features like Live Updates or desktop mode.
Android 16 represents a Significant evolution in user experience, design, and management of notifications and multitaskingAlthough some features are still in beta or pending full rollout, the new version of Google's operating system confirms its commitment to improving customization, productivity, and real-time control over activities. The redesign of the Phone app, the arrival of Live Updates, and the shift to desktop mode herald a more versatile platform adapted to the current needs of users who expect more and more from their mobile devices.
