Android 16 is coming earlier than usual. Here's why


AndroidHeadlines thinks it knows when Google will announce the next Android version. That will be earlier than we are used to from Google. And they have a good reason for that.

Google previously hinted that Android 16 would come out earlier than usual. AndroidHeadlines now has a date; June 3, 2025. That will also be the date when Pixel phones such as the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro will receive the latest Android version.

Google Android 16 release schedule expected
Android 16 release schedule expected

Normally Google announces new Android versions is the fall, simultaneously with new Pixel phones. That didn't quite work out this year. The Pixel 9 series came out with an older Android version, namely version 14. Being the first to have a new Android version was precisely one of the pluses of the Pixel lineup. Android 15 now came out several weeks later and Google wants to prevent that from now on.

Smaller update in the fall

And so starting in 2025, a new Android version will be announced first, followed by new Pixel phones. Google then targets a smaller update with new AI features later in the year. This will make Google more resistant to delays and allow it to be more competitive.

Android 12-16 release date
Previous Android versions always came out later

Traditionally, Google has released new Android versions in the fall, usually between August and October. So this is going to change starting in 2025 with a June launch. This also gives some more air to other manufacturers who want to release new models in the fall with the latest Android version anyway.


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