Just a day after Apple’s WWDC 2025 announcements, Google has rolled out Android 16 to eligible Pixel smartphones, introducing a wave of AI-powered features, security upgrades, and exclusive tools under its latest “Pixel Drop”.
Android 16 includes dynamic lock screen notifications, advanced privacy controls, and the new Material 3 Expressive design for a more personalized user experience. Among the headline additions is support for real-time notifications, mirroring iOS-style updates like ride arrivals and food deliveries directly on the lock screen.
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Security enhancements take center stage, with expanded advanced protection modes and Bluetooth LE Audio support for improved external device connectivity. Pixel-exclusive upgrades include the new “Pixel VIPs” widget, a long-awaited battery health indicator for Pixel 8a, and AI-powered Recorder app updates in French and German.
Google has also upgraded its Messages and Photos apps, with RCS group chat customization and AI-based photo editing features. Accessibility tools such as improved video captions and object identification via haptic feedback have also been added.
With these updates, Google signals its intent to stay competitive as AI and personalization redefine the smartphone experience.
