Android 16 is now available for early testing. Developers can access the first preview release today, offering a sneak peek into the next major version of Android.
This new version expands features like photo library integration and medical data-sharing for apps. The change aims to align Android’s release schedule with upcoming phone launches in 2025.
Matthew McCullough, head of Android Developer, shared that the update is part of Google’s effort to speed up innovation in apps and devices. The new photo picker feature will allow apps to select specific images and videos without accessing your entire storage.
Android 16 also includes an updated version of the Privacy Sandbox, Google’s replacement for Android’s advertising ID.
The Health Connect app preview introduces APIs for managing health records in FHIR format. This could allow apps and devices to share medical data with user consent, similar to Apple Health.
The first public beta of Android 16 is expected in January 2025. A full release is projected for after April 2025, likely aligning with Google’s I/O event.
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