After Apple rolled out IOS 26, Google, too, has released Android 16, and it’s beginning with Pixel phones. Is it one of the most significant additions? It just might be!
Google’s live updates, responding to Apple’s Live Activities, will revolutionise the user experience. You can now follow your food delivery or ride-share journey in real time from your lock screen or status bar.
Real-Time Tracking, At Last on Android
With Live Updates, Android users can finally watch their Uber arrive or food order progress without switching apps. These updates show up persistently, offering real-time info at a glance.
Google began testing the feature last year and in January, it launched it in beta. Now, it’s rolling out widely. You’ll see Live Updates in the Now Bar on Samsung phones, and as Live Alerts on Oppo and OnePlus.
It doesn’t end with food and rides. Google Maps is already testing the feature for navigation in the Android 16 beta.
Smarter Notifications and Accessibility
Android 16 also organises your notification drawer. Alerts from the same app now automatically group, making it simpler to deal with the deluge of pings.
For hearing aid users, Android 16 has native controls. You can now volume-set, choose your favourite mic for calling, and more. The majority of hearing devices rely on external mics that capture ambient sound, but with this release, users can use the phone’s mic for better calls.
More Security, Better Control
Android 16 introduces Advanced Protection, a feature intended for high-risk users. It protects you from dangerous apps, suspicious websites, and internet attacks. It’s for activists, journalists, or anyone who requires stronger security.
Developers can also begin testing a desktop-like Android experience like Samsung DeX. This involves custom keyboard shortcuts and better multitasking, with a broader release coming later this year.
Other Notable Updates
Google Messages now supports custom group chat icons for RCS group chats. You can also silence notifications for a time.
Photos gets a new editor and additional features on all devices.
Google Home now allows you to pin device controls, such as cameras or thermostats, to your Wear OS watch or Google TV.
Wear OS users can now tap city transit cards directly without launching Google Wallet.
What’s Next??
Android 16 is available to Pixel users today. Material 3’s expressive new look will come later this year on Android 16 and Wear OS 6.
Live location, smarter alerts, and enhanced controls—Android 16 just made daily tasks a little simpler.
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