Android 16 Released: Gemini AI, Live Notifications, and Major Security Upgrades

Google has started rolling out Android 16, the next big version of its mobile OS, starting June 10, 2025. The update is initially available on Pixel phones and will soon expand to Samsung, OnePlus, Xiaomi, and other major brands.

Android 16 isn’t just a visual refresh it’s packed with new tools focused on AI integration, smarter notifications, better multitasking, and tighter privacy.

Key Highlights –

Live Notifications (Real-time alerts like iOS Live Activities)
Gemini AI replacing Google Assistant
Material You 3.5 UI improvements
Improved security with Advanced Protection Mode
Better battery health management
New audio support (LE Audio, Auracast)
Multitasking tools for foldables and tablets
Photo Picker with cloud support

Visual Changes: Material You Gets More Expressive

While the full Material You 3.5 update will roll out gradually, Android 16 introduces early tweaks:

Rounded corners and smoother transitions
Updated volume panel with softer animations
Redesigned notification prompts
New icon shape options

These changes focus on making the interface feel more fluid and customizable.

Live Notifications for Real-Time Info

One of the most practical additions in Android 16 is Live Notifications, similar to Apple’s Live Activities. These allow apps to update in real-time on the lock screen or status bar for things like food delivery, ride-sharing, or sports scores.

Developers can also create richer interactions, like allowing users to take action (tip, reply, call) right from the notification.

Gemini AI Comes Built-In

Android 16 starts the integration of Google Gemini, the company’s next-gen AI. It replaces many functions of Google Assistant with smarter suggestions, summarization, and in-context help.

Gemini now appears:

As a lock screen shortcut
Inside apps like Chrome, Gmail, and Messages
Through voice or text queries

This AI push is Google’s answer to Apple’s OpenAI integration in iOS 18.

See Also –

Google Shutting Down Instant Apps – November 2025 Last Call!

Google Removes “Social Share” from Pixel Camera in Version 9.9

WhatsApp to Show Ads in Updates Tab: What You Need to Know

Security Upgrades for Everyone

Android 16 is also big on security and privacy. New features include:

Advanced Protection Mode for high-risk users (journalists, activists, etc.)
Factory reset protection without password
USB port locking when device is powered off
Expanded scam detection and fraud alerts
Offline device locking

Battery Health Tools (Like iOS).

Finally, Google has added long-awaited battery features:

Battery health score (see battery condition)
80% charging cap for better battery lifespan
Charging alerts to prevent overheating

This mirrors Apple’s iOS battery tools, giving Android users more control.

LE Audio and Auracast Support

Android 16 now supports LE Audio, including Auracast which allows multiple people to listen to one device (like at gyms, events, airports). It also brings clearer sound and better hearing aid support.

Improved Multitasking on Large Screens

For tablets and foldables, Android 16 finally feels desktop ready:

Freeform window support
Taskbar for quick app switching
Resizable split-screen and floating windows

This is especially useful for the Galaxy Z Fold and Pixel Tablet.

Better Camera & Photo Picker

Camera tools also get a boost:

Manual control over color and exposure
Ultra HDR and new AVP codec for video
Cloud album access inside photo picker
Enhanced photo search by people, date, or location

Devices Getting Android 16

Now Available On:

Pixel 6, 7, 8, and upcoming Pixel 9, 10
Pixel Fold, Pixel Tablet

Coming Soon:

Samsung Galaxy S22/S23/S24/S25
Z Fold 4/5/6/7, Flip series
OnePlus 11/12/13
Xiaomi 13/14/15
Nothing Phone 1, 2, 3
Motorola Edge 40, 50

Rollout schedules may vary by brand and region.

Verdict: A Smarter, Safer Android

Android 16 is not just a design update it’s a deep shift toward AI-powered, user centric, and secure mobile experiences. With real-time alerts, Gemini AI, better multitasking, and improved protection, it brings Android in line with the modern mobile user’s needs.

While the full visual overhaul is still coming later this year, Android 16 is already a solid upgrade.