Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Google has officially launched Android 16, its latest mobile operating system, on Tuesday (June 10), just a day after Apple unveiled iOS 26. The update, which succeeds Android 15, introduces a series of new features aimed at enhancing productivity, security, and accessibility.
It will initially roll out to Google Pixel devices, with broader availability to other smartphone brands expected later this year.
“We’re introducing Android 16, which is initially rolling out to Pixel devices, with other smartphone brands to follow later this year,” Google said in an official statement on Tuesday (June 10).
“This marks the fastest major Android release in recent years, ensuring you receive the latest updates on your device as quickly as possible,” the company added.
Android 16 introduces a wide range of new features designed to boost productivity, enhance security, and improve accessibility. Here’s the list of Androiod 16 new features:
Material 3 Expressive Design
One of the key highlights in Android 16 is the introduction of Material 3 Expressive. Google claimed the feature brings a range of enhancements that make the operating system more accessible and user-friendly.
The refreshed design system features 35 new user interface including squircle transitions shapes and 15 updated UI elements such as split buttons, toolbars, loading indicators, and floating action buttons.
Google says the new design enables smoother interactions and better personalization, aiming to make Android devices more intuitive and visually accessible.
Auto-Grouping for Notifications
To reduce notification clutter, Android 16 debuts “Auto-grouping,” a feature that automatically clusters similar alerts, making it easier for users to manage and locate relevant information.
Live Updates
The new Live Updates feature allows users to track events in real time such as travel progress or delivery statuses directly from compatible app notifications.
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Revamped Image Editor
Google Photos has received an upgraded Image Editor in Android 16, now enhanced with AI-powered suggestions that help users on editing photos equipped with expanded new various editing tools. The update is designed to simplify photo enhancements and offer smarter editing options.
Advanced Protection for Security
On the security front, Android 16 introduces Advanced Protection to bolster security against a wide range of cyber threats.
The feature offers a comprehensive suite of tools designed to shield users from malicious apps, unsafe websites, scam calls, and other online dangers.
It ensures that Android’s highest-rated security features are fully enabled and integrated to defend against data breaches and digital attacks.
By combining new capabilities with top-rated existing protections, Advanced Protection safeguards users across multiple critical areas of their device.
(Raidi/Agung)
