Android 16 to release in June: Here’s the complete list of eligible phones so far

Google is preparing to launch the stable version of Android 16 as early as June, departing from its usual October release window. The announcement follows the recent Android Show, where Google outlined the upcoming rollout alongside other major updates. Unlike previous launches that often aligned with the release of new Pixel phones in fall, Android 16 will debut several months earlier. This suggests that the beta phase is nearing completion, and Pixel users will be the first to receive the update featuring revamped tools and interface enhancements.

However, not every Android phone will receive the Android 16 update. The update is focused on newer models, and users are advised to confirm compatibility ahead of the official rollout.

Google Pixel devices eligible for Android 16

Pixel 6, 6 Pro, and 6a

Pixel 7, 7 Pro, and 7a

Pixel 8, 8 Pro, and 8a

Pixel Fold

Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold, and 9a

Samsung devices expected to receive Android 16

Samsung will be among the early brands to adopt Android 16. The Galaxy S25 series—comprising the Galaxy S25, S25 Plus, S25 Ultra, and S25 Edge—will ship with Android 16 out of the box. The Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 are also lined up for early updates. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7, scheduled to launch in July, are expected to run One UI 8 based on Android 16. For the Galaxy S24 series, users may receive the update in the fourth quarter of 2025 if Samsung follows its typical software update cycle.

Other Android brands to watch

Brands like Vivo and Oppo are also anticipated to roll out Android 16 updates to their latest smartphones. However, these updates may not become available until later in the year.

Android 16 features: What’s new

This year, Google has opted to announce Android 16 separately from its Google I/O event, aiming to highlight the update amid a wave of AI announcements.

• The interface has undergone a redesign under the new Material 3 Expressive Design. This brings personalisable themes, more fluid animations, and increased font sizes.
• Quick Settings now allow tile resizing, easier rearrangement through drag-and-drop, and improved haptic and motion feedback. A new Live Activities feature brings real-time updates directly to the lock screen and notification panel. This includes delivery status or navigation updates, similar to features found on Apple devices.
• Battery health tracking will be available, showing battery capacity.
• Security enhancements include a Factory Reset Protection Loop to deter stolen phones from being wiped. Advanced Protection Mode offers offline device locking, USB port restrictions, and scam detection features.
• In a major change, Gemini AI will replace Google Assistant.

Android 16 promises a host of improvements in software performance, security, and AI capabilities. With the launch scheduled earlier than expected, users with eligible devices can expect a refreshed experience soon.