Google’s Pixel 6 and 6 Pro are receiving Android 16 Developer Preview 1, extending beyond their original update commitment. This suggests these 2021 phones might get the full Android 16 release.
Initially, Google promised three years of Android updates and five years of security patches for these devices. Updates were guaranteed only until October 2024, with security support extending to October 2026.
The phones will receive Android 15 QPR1 in December and QPR2 in March. Android 16’s arrival in Developer Preview form hints at continued support for these devices.
This development suggests the Pixel 6 series might get Android 16 when it launches in Q2 2025. The next milestone will be the Android 16 Beta Program expected in January.
The fate of other devices like the Pixel 6a and Pixel 7 series remains unclear regarding Android 16 support.
Google advises regular users to avoid manually installing the Developer Preview and wait for the Beta Program next year.
