Google's next major mobile operating system update is on the horizon, with Android 16 set to bring significant changes to the Pixel ecosystem. Following Google's I/O event, developers have already received access to the first Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1, giving us an early glimpse at what's coming later this year. While the full stable release is expected next month, some features like the Material 3 Expressive redesign will arrive in subsequent feature drops, likely in September.
Compatibility with Pixel Devices
Google has confirmed Android 16 support for a wide range of Pixel devices, extending all the way back to the Pixel 6 series. This continuation of support demonstrates Google's commitment to extending the lifecycle of its devices. The update will be available for the entire Pixel 6, 7, 8, and upcoming 9 series, including the Pro, XL, and 'a' variants. Additionally, both the Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold will receive the update. Unfortunately, the Pixel 5 has reached the end of its update cycle and will not be receiving Android 16.
Pixel Phones Compatible with Android 16:
- Pixel 9 Pro
- Pixel 9 Pro XL
- Pixel 9
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold
- Pixel 9a
- Pixel 8
- Pixel 8 Pro
- Pixel 8a
- Pixel 7
- Pixel 7 Pro
- Pixel 7a
- Pixel 6
- Pixel 6 Pro
- Pixel 6a
- Pixel Tablet
- Pixel Fold
Enhanced Customization with Resizable Quick Settings
One of the most notable features revealed in the Android 16 QPR1 beta is the ability to resize Quick Settings tiles. This enhancement allows users to switch between the standard 2×1 tile size and a more compact 1×1 option. The smaller tiles display only the function's icon without accompanying text, enabling users to fit up to 16 tiles in the first Quick Settings panel. This represents a significant improvement in screen real estate management and personalization options.
Improved Organization of Quick Settings
The Quick Settings edit mode has also received an organizational upgrade. Unused tiles are now neatly categorized into groups like Connectivity, Utilities, Display, Privacy, Accessibility, and system app tiles. This thoughtful categorization makes it much easier for users to find and add specific Quick Settings functions without scrolling through a disorganized list.
AI Features and Hardware Requirements
While Android 16 will be compatible with devices dating back to the Pixel 6, there may be limitations based on hardware capabilities. The Pixel 6 series, while included in the update, might not support all the new AI features due to the processing power required. Google has been increasingly focusing on AI integration in its Pixel devices, and the latest update is expected to bring numerous AI extensions that demand significant computational resources.
Long-term Support Promise
Google previously announced that starting with the Pixel 8 lineup, devices would receive up to six years of full software updates. This commitment puts Google in direct competition with Apple's long-term support model. However, the real test will be whether the Tensor chips powering these devices can effectively handle updates and new features five or six years after release. This extended support timeline represents a significant shift in Android device longevity expectations.
Visual and Functional Changes
Beyond the resizable Quick Settings tiles, Android 16 is expected to bring substantial visual changes to the platform. Users can look forward to a refreshed Notification Shade and Home Screen appearance as part of the Material 3 Expressive design overhaul. While some anticipated features like a split notification panel that separates alerts from Quick Settings aren't yet available in the current beta, they may appear in future releases before the final stable version launches.
Key Android 16 Features:
- Material 3 Expressive design overhaul (coming Fall 2025)
- Resizable Quick Settings tiles (2×1 and 1×1 sizes)
- Categorized Quick Settings organization
- Enhanced AI capabilities (device-dependent)
- Refreshed Notification Shade and Home Screen
Beta Access and Testing
For eager Pixel users who want to experience these new features ahead of the official release, the Android 16 QPR1 beta is available for installation now. This early access allows users to not only preview Android's latest design language but also test the new customization options firsthand. As with any beta software, users should be aware of potential bugs and instabilities before installing on their primary devices.