Magicnation Forum

Hey Explorers, What's up!
There's a great news coming from Google. Google has launched the first Developer Preview of Android 16, marking an earlier start to its development cycle compared to previous versions. Here's everything you need to know: 

Release Timeline

The Developer Preview 1 (DP1) for Android 16 is available as of November 19, 2024. This signals a shift in Google's strategy to release the stable version in Q2 of 2025, aligning better with device launch cycles. The timeline includes: 

• Second Developer Preview: December 2024.

• Beta Program Start: January 2025, continuing until April.

• Stable Release: Q2 2025.

 

Eligible Devices

 The preview supports a wide range of Pixel devices, including: 

• Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a.

• Pixel 7, 7 Pro, 7a.

• Pixel 8, 8 Pro, 8a.

• Pixel 9 series, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet.

  

New Features

 Android 16 introduces several exciting features:
  1. Notification Cooldown: Automatically lowers the notification volume during rapid successions, reducing distractions. 
​​​​​​2. Native Desktop Mode: Google aims to bring desktop functionality with app windows, improving multitasking.  
3. Battery Optimization: A feature to limit charging to 80% for better battery health.  
4. Improved Audio Sharing: Enhanced support for casting audio to multiple Bluetooth devices simultaneously.   

Installation Process

 To install the DP1, users need to flash factory images or use OTA updates. A factory reset may be required for some devices, especially for those currently on Android 15 Beta. 

Codename and Additional Changes

 Internally, Android 16 is referred to as "Baklava," continuing Google's tradition of dessert-based codenames. It also includes updates to APIs like Health Connect and Privacy Sandbox. Android 16 is shaping up to be a feature-rich release, promising improvements for both developers and end-users. So,  Are you planning to test it on your device? Let me know in the comment section, and I will see you in the next topic very soon...

Android 16  

Big news from Google! The Android 16 Developer Preview 1 has officially dropped, kicking off the development cycle for a stable release expected in Q2 2025. With some exciting new features like a native desktop mode, notification cooldown, and enhanced audio sharing, it looks like Android 16 is shaping up to be a game-changer! Plus, battery optimization is getting a boost with the new 80% charging limit for better long-term battery health.