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Google has just released Android 16 Beta 1, packed with exciting new features for developers and early adopters. This update brings a wide range of improvements, including enhanced large display support, a new “Live Updates” feature, and advanced camera upgrades. Let’s dive into what this first beta has to offer!

1. Better Large Display Support

One of the standout features in Android 16 Beta 1 is the improved support for large screen devices, such as foldables. Google has removed the restrictions on apps attempting to resize themselves when switching orientation or display size. This means apps can now be displayed in any size window and aspect ratio, making the experience smoother on larger screens like book-style foldables. However, this update doesn’t apply to games, so those may still be a bit restricted.

Developers now have the tools to rework their apps to fit this new protocol, and by 2025, devices with screens 600dp (width) will begin seeing this change applied with apps targeting API level 36. In 2026, apps targeting API level 37 will be the next in line for these changes.

2. Live Updates on Your Pixel Lock Screen

Inspired by Samsung’s Galaxy S25 lock screen, Android 16 introduces the “Live Updates” feature. This feature will allow you to monitor urgent notifications directly from your Pixel’s lock screen. Live Updates are designed for more critical notifications, such as ride-sharing details, food orders, and navigation information, making it easier to stay up-to-date without unlocking your device.

3. Advanced Professional Video (APV) for Better Camera Quality

Content creators will love the camera updates in Android 16 Beta 1. Google is introducing support for Advanced Professional Video (APV), designed to enhance video recording quality. With features like perceptually lossless video quality, faster post-production workflows, and support for 2K, 4K, and even 8K resolutions, Android 16 is positioning itself as a powerful tool for professional videographers.

4. Accessibility Improvements

Google is continuing its focus on accessibility with Android 16, adding supplemental descriptions for drop-down menus and improving navigation between fields when using accessibility services. These updates will make the operating system more user-friendly for those with disabilities, ensuring a better experience for all.

5. What’s Coming Next?

Android 16 Beta 1 is just the beginning. Google plans to release the full version of Android 16 by Q2 2025, with a minor SDK update expected in Q4 2025. In the meantime, developers will have the chance to test and refine their apps, and users can look forward to an exciting range of new features.

The Android 16 Beta 1 also comes at an interesting time, following the Samsung Galaxy S25 launch, where Google highlighted its collaboration with Samsung. Could this mean more deep integration between Android and Samsung devices in the future? We’ll have to wait and see!

Conclusion

Android 16 Beta 1 brings a slew of new features that promise to improve the Android experience for both developers and users. From enhanced large display support to better video recording capabilities, Android 16 is shaping up to be a significant update. Stay tuned for more developments as we get closer to the official release in Q2 2025!