Google has released the first preview of Android 16 for developers, ahead of the planned launch in Q2 2025. This marks a significant shift, as Google has decided to start API releases earlier to encourage faster innovation across apps and devices.
First Developer Preview of Android 16
This early preview is part of Google’s plan to implement more frequent Android API releases. The company intends to roll out two major Android API updates in 2025, with the primary release set for Q2 and a secondary update in Q4.
The Q2 release, scheduled earlier than in previous years, is designed to better align with device launch schedules. As a result, developers will need to complete their annual compatibility testing a few months ahead of previous timelines.
The Q4 update will introduce new developer APIs, feature enhancements, optimizations, and bug fixes but will not include any behavior changes that could impact apps. These quarterly updates will ensure continuous improvements, with the Q1 and Q3 releases focusing on incremental updates.
Key Features of the Android 16 Developer Preview:
Embedded Photo Picker
The new photo picker allows users to grant apps access to specific images and videos, rather than their entire media library. Supported from Android 4.4 (API level 19), it integrates into apps with just a few lines of code. This feature helps developers avoid requesting broad permissions, enhancing security.
Health Records API
The Health Connect preview introduces APIs for managing health records in FHIR format. This early version allows apps to read and write medical data with explicit user consent. The API is currently available in an early access program.
Privacy Sandbox
Android 16 includes the latest version of the Privacy Sandbox, aimed at strengthening privacy protections. A key feature is the SDK Runtime, which isolates SDKs in a separate environment from the app, providing enhanced user data protection.
Android 16 Release Timeline
- Developer Preview Period: The Android 16 preview program runs from November 2024, with updates delivered at key milestones. These updates will include system images, SDK tools, emulators, API references, and API diffs.
- Platform Stability: Google is targeting late Q1 2025 for Platform Stability, with final SDK/NDK APIs and system behaviors. Developers will have several months to conduct final tests before the public release in 2025.
Getting Started with Android 16
Developers can start using Android 16 Developer Preview 1 by flashing a system image on Pixel 6 or later and updating their tools. If you have already installed Beta 1 from Android 15 QPR2, a device wipe will be required to transition to the Android 16 preview.
Google also noted that it will later invite users to join the Android Beta program as the beta releases become available.