Android 16 Developer Preview 1 released: Key features, timeline and eligible devices

Google has launched the first Developer Preview of Android 16, featuring an embedded photo picker and support for the FHIR format in Health Connect. A six-stage rollout is planned, with beta releases beginning in January 2025 and a stable release anticipated in mid-2025.

featured-image

California-based tech giant Google has unveiled the first Developer Preview of Android 16. This preview is aimed at app developers and comes with experimental features and known bugs. Google has outlined a six-stage rollout for Android 16.

A second Developer Preview is scheduled for December, with Beta releases starting in January 2025. introduces several key features, including an embedded photo picker, allowing users to share specific images or videos with apps rather than granting access to their entire media library. This change enhances user privacy by limiting exposure of personal data.



Another significant update is to platform. Android 16 will support the Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR) format, enabling apps to read and write medical records seamlessly. This feature remains in early access as part of Google’s ongoing efforts to enhance health data integration.

The release also includes updates to Google’s Privacy Sandbox, continuing the company’s commitment to refining user data protection across Android devices. Release Timeline Google has outlined a six-stage rollout for Android 16. A second Developer Preview is scheduled for December, with Beta releases starting in January 2025.

Platform Stability is anticipated by March and April, paving the way for the final release in May 2025. Developers will also see a new set of APIs introduced in a subsequent release planned for Q4 2025.Device Compatibility Initially available for , the programme will run from November 2024 to mid-2025, with a stable release planned for the second quarter of next year.

is available for Google Pixel 6a and newer models, including the Pixel 6 series, Pixel 7 series, Pixel 8 series, Pixel 9 series, and the Pixel Fold. Over-the-air (OTA) images are provided for compatible devices, and the preview can also be accessed via the Android Emulator in Android Studio. Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world to know more.

3.6 Crore Indians visited in a single day choosing us as India's undisputed platform for General Election Results. Explore the latest updates.