Google has released the first Developer Preview of Android 16, providing developers with an early glimpse into the next significant iteration of its mobile operating system.

A Developer-Focused Launch

This preview is tailored for developers, enabling them to begin early development, test their applications, and provide valuable feedback. However, as with any preliminary build, users should expect some instability, as the system and apps running on Android 16 may not function flawlessly.

System Updates and Compatibility Adjustments

Android 16 brings several system-level changes that could impact app performance and functionality. Developers may encounter minor glitches or more substantial issues until apps are fully optimized for the new platform. While most APIs, features, and applications should work as intended, Google recommends reviewing known issues to identify potential challenges.

One major update is Google’s shift toward more frequent API releases, designed to drive faster innovation across apps and devices. This new approach begins with Android 16, which is slated for a major release in Q2 2025, earlier than the traditional Q3 timeline. This adjustment aims to better align with ecosystem device launch schedules, ensuring that updates reach users more promptly.

Additionally, a minor release is scheduled for Q4 2025, introducing new APIs, feature enhancements, optimizations, and bug fixes without causing significant app behavior changes. Quarterly updates in Q1 and Q3 will continue to focus on incremental improvements.

To support this updated release strategy, Google has introduced a new SDK_INT_FULL constant alongside the existing SDK_INT constant. This enhancement enables developers to handle both major and minor Android versions more efficiently.

Key Features in Android 16 Developer Preview

Embedded Photo Picker

Android 16 introduces a secure, built-in photo picker for apps to access user-selected images and videos from local or cloud storage. This feature, supported on devices running Android 4.4 and later, requires minimal integration via the Android Jetpack library, simplifying implementation for developers.

Health Connect Integration

Health Connect APIs, still in early access, allow apps to read and write user medical records in FHIR (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources) format with explicit user consent. This initiative reflects Google’s commitment to privacy and data security, reinforced by further enhancements to its Privacy Sandbox in Android 16.

Installation and Known Issues

Developers can install the Android 16 Developer Preview on a range of Google Pixel devices. Detailed instructions for installation, as well as SDK and Android Emulator updates, are available on Google’s developer website.

As expected with an early release, Android 16 may exhibit issues such as:

Instability in launching apps via media notifications.
Camera flashes during video recording when adjusting the zoom level.
Limited functionality in some apps, including Google’s native applications, as the preview lacks Compatibility Test Suite (CTS) approval. Developers dependent on CTS-approved builds or SafetyNet APIs might face additional hurdles.

Conclusion

The Android 16 Developer Preview signals the beginning of a new era for the platform, emphasizing faster innovation and enhanced user privacy. While still in its early stages, it provides developers with the tools needed to prepare for the official release, scheduled for mid-2025. Developers are encouraged to explore its features, adapt their applications, and contribute feedback to refine the final product.

Source