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All Google Pixels Set To Get the Google Android 16 Update

By / Tech / June 22, 2025

Google Android 16 Update is here on Pixel 6 and newer, bringing live notifications and enhanced privacy controls.

Android 16 is available for Pixel devices
Android 16 is available for Pixel devices (Image viaGoogle | Author | Deltia’s Gaming)

Google’s new Android  16 release is already here, and Pixel owners will be first in line to receive the update. Unlike previous years, when major Android upgrades landed in the fall, this year’s launch brings the update in June 2025. That means anyone running a Pixel 6 or newer device can expect new features and security enhancements well ahead of most other Android users. 

The focus of Android 16 is on refining the core experience. You will not see a radical redesign. Instead, you will notice smarter notifications, more precise privacy controls, and under‑the‑hood improvements that help your phone feel more responsive.

The Google Android 16 Update Additions

The Google Android 16 update brings many practical improvements designed to make daily tasks smoother and more secure. Rather than focusing on major visual redesigns, Android 16 refines the core functions you use every day. Key additions include:

1. Live Updates in notifications

Track deliveries and ride shares in real time without opening apps. Compatible food delivery and ride-share apps can push ongoing status straight to your lock screen and notification shade. Notifications from the same app are automatically grouped for a cleaner view.

Clock customization options on the lock screen of Android 16. (Source: Google | Marques Brownlee/YouTube)
Clock customization options on the lock screen of Android 16. (Source: Google | Marques Brownlee/YouTube)

2. Improved support for hearing devices

Switch calls to your phone’s microphone for clearer audio in noisy settings. Native controls let you adjust volume and sound presets for hearing aids directly from Android’s settings.

3. One-tap Advanced Protection

Activate Google’s strongest mobile security with a single tap. This feature adds layers of defense against harmful apps, scam calls, and unsafe websites.

4. Desktop-style windowing on tablets

Samsung DeX and compatible tablets gain the ability to open, move, and resize multiple app windows on one screen. Later this year, Android 16 will add custom keyboard shortcuts and taskbar overflow.

5. Pixel VIPs widget

Elevate your closest family and friends from favorites to VIPs with a home screen widget that keeps their photos and contact shortcuts front and center.

6. AI Mode on the home screen

Answer questions that need further exploration right from your home screen. AI Mode provides instant context and quick summaries without opening a separate app.

7. Gemini Live integration

Use Google’s real-time AI assistant across your favorite apps. Android 16 brings Gemini Live to Google Maps, Calendar, Tasks, and Keep.

8. Enhanced navigation and haptics

Feel more responsive feedback with improved haptic patterns. Button navigation and back animations are smoother and more consistent.

9. Additional safeguards

Set up stronger verification steps and recovery options to keep your device and data protected against loss or unauthorized access.

10. Other enhancements

Version details of Android 16 on Pixel 6A
Version details of Android 16 on Pixel 6A (Image via Google)

Capture high-dynamic-range screenshots. Enjoy adaptive refresh rate support. Use the new identity check feature to confirm passwords and keys before critical actions.

Which Pixel Models Qualify

Google’s policy for Pixel support covers three years of platform updates and five years of security patches for all devices from the Pixel 6 onward. The following models will all receive the Android 16 update:

when can you expect the Android 16 update on Google Pixels
When can you expect the Android 16 update on Google Pixels (Image via Google | Author | Deltia’s Gaming)
  • Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6 a
  • Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7 a
  • Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8 a
  • Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL
  • Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet

If your phone shipped with Tensor‑series hardware, you are on the list. Earlier models, including the Pixel 5 series, are no longer supported.

When Will You See the Update?

All improvements in the Android 16 update
All improvements in the Android 16 update (Image via Author | Deltia’s Gaming)

The rollout follows a predictable pattern:

Android 16 is already available for download on Pixel 6 and newer devices in the United States, Europe, and India. Over the next few weeks, Google will expand availability to all eligible Pixels around the globe. By late June, most users will see the update notice in Settings under System and then System Update.

If you rely on your Pixel for work, it makes sense to wait a few days after release. Early adopters sometimes run into minor bugs or crashes in specific apps or slight battery inconsistencies. On the other hand, if you like being among the first to try new tools, go ahead. Privacy enhancements and Live Updates can save you time. And if you use your Pixel with an external display or keyboard, the improved window management may be worth the immediate switch.

We provide the latest news and “How To’s” for Tech content. Meanwhile, you can check out the following articles related to PC GPUs, CPU and GPU comparisons, mobile phones, and more:

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