Android 16 is available for Pixel devices with new features.
Google Photos will receive AI editing tools.
Pixel Drop brought updates to subtitles and contact widgets.
Google announced the release of Android 16 for Pixel smartphones right after Apple's presentation at WWDC. The new OS version includes security updates, AI features, and expanded personalization settings, especially in the areas of messaging, audio, and notifications.
Android 16 introduces live notifications on the lock screen, Bluetooth LE support for better sound quality, and enhanced fraud protection. Special attention has been given to accessibility: an improved protection mode for public figures and updates in the Magnifier app have been introduced.
Google Photos users will soon gain access to AI-based tools that allow them to erase, move, and reformat parts of images. Adaptive refresh rate support, notification grouping, and HDR screenshots have also been introduced.
Pixel Drop updates brought the Pixel VIPs widget, more detailed subtitles, and sticker creation through Gboard. AI summaries in French and German have been added to Google Recorder, and Australians will receive satellite Emergency SOS. The Pixel 8a received a new battery indicator.
In the corporate environment, Android 16 expands Google Wallet capabilities for storing badges and integrates the Gemini chatbot into Google Docs. PDF handling in Chrome has been improved, including the viewing of related files, making the platform more user-friendly for business users.
Earlier, the annual Google I/O 2025 developer conference took place in Mountain View, California. The event showcased numerous updates, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence. Among the main innovations is Google Beam – a video calling platform with a realistic 3D presence effect that uses AI and six cameras.
