Google just released the first developer preview of Android 16 (also called Baklava), and it’s available for app developers to test out the new features and changes.
This preview brings some interesting updates, like a new photo picker, medical record support, and more privacy tools. Here’s everything you should know about it.
What’s New in Android 16 Developer Preview 1?
There are a few key features in this first preview, but most of them are for developers to test. Here’s what’s new:
1. Embedded Photo Picker
Android 13 introduced a privacy-friendly photo picker that lets apps ask for access to specific photos or videos on your phone instead of your entire gallery. But many apps haven’t used it, mainly because the photo picker would pop up in a separate window, making it feel disconnected from the app.
In Android 16, Google is changing that. Now, apps can embed the photo picker directly into their interface, making it feel more integrated and smoother for users, while still protecting privacy.
2. Medical Records in Health Connect
Android 16 is improving the Health Connect app. Now, it will allow apps to read and write medical records in FHIR format (a system for sharing health data). But don’t worry — apps will still need your permission to access your medical records. Right now, these features are available through an early access program for developers.
3. Updated Privacy Sandbox
Google is continuing its work on the Privacy Sandbox, a set of tools designed to help apps advertise to users without compromising privacy. They haven’t revealed specific changes yet, but this will continue to evolve in Android 16.
4. New API for Minor Updates
Android 16 introduces a new API (called SDK_INT_FULL) to help apps tell the difference between Android 16 and future minor updates. This will help developers avoid confusion when different versions of Android are out.
How to Install the Android 16 Developer Preview:
This preview is not for regular users! It’s designed for developers to test out new features. To try it out, you’ll need to manually install it on a compatible Pixel device. Google makes it easy to install updates with their Flash Tool, but you should be careful:
- Developer previews are not stable and might cause apps or features to break.
- If you’re already using the Android 15 QPR2 Beta, you won’t be able to install Android 16 without wiping your device, so be sure to back up your data.
Here’s how to install it:
- Download the Android Flash Tool for your Pixel device (Google has links for various Pixel models).
- Set up your device for ADB access (this lets your PC communicate with your phone).
- Follow the instructions to install Android 16 DP1.
- Once installed, your device will automatically receive future updates to Android 16.
- Download OTA for your Pixel.
When is Android 16 Coming?
It might seem early, but Android 16’s first developer preview is out now, even though Google usually releases the first preview in February.
This time, though, they’re speeding things up. Google plans to release Android 16 sometime in Q2 2025, and a leak suggests it could launch around June 3, 2025.
Here’s the timeline for Android 16 updates:
- November 2024: Developer Preview 1 (this one)
- December 2024: Developer Preview 2
- January 2025: Beta 1
- February 2025: Beta 2
- March 2025: Beta 3
- April 2025: Beta 4 (this is the final beta before the full release)
Platform Stability will happen around Beta 3 in March 2025. This means that after this point, the operating system will be stable, and app developers can start updating their apps for Android 16.
Android 16’s Codename: Baklava
You might be wondering why Android 16 is called Baklava. It’s the first time Google has used a “B” dessert name after Android 10 (which didn’t have a dessert name). The reason for this is related to a project inside Google, and it helps keep Android’s naming consistent.
What If You Don’t Have a Pixel?
If you don’t have a compatible Pixel device, you can still try Android 16 using the Android Emulator in Android Studio. Make sure you’re using the latest version of Android Studio (called Ladybug) for the best experience.
That’s the gist of the Android 16 Developer Preview 1! It’s mostly for developers right now, but it gives us a sneak peek at what’s coming in the next big Android update.
Source – Android Developers