Google has adjusted its timeline for the Android 16 launch, now slated for April to June 2025. In line with this schedule, the tech giant has released the second developer preview for Android 16, showcasing numerous improvements since the initial release last month.
The Android 16 DP2 is accessible for users of Pixel 6 and newer models, as well as the Pixel Tablet. Additionally, Google plans to roll out the Android 16 beta program starting January 2025.
Key Features of Android 16 Developer Preview 2:
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System Triggered Profiling
- The new Profiling Manager integrates System Triggered Profiling, allowing apps to register for diagnostic data, including start times and throttling details. Enhanced Haptic Feedback
- New haptic APIs in Android 16 enable apps to customize the amplitude and frequency of haptic effects, while seamlessly managing device differences. Job Introspection Improvements
- Android 16 introduces JobScheduler, providing multiple reasons for a job's pending status based on developer and system constraints. Adaptive Refresh Rates
- The update offers hasArrSupport() and getSuggestedFrameRate(int) methods for easier utilization of adaptive refresh rate technology in applications. Optimized Job Execution
- With JobScheduler#getPendingJobReasons(int jobId), developers can retrieve explanations for job pendancy and JobScheduler#getPendingJobReasonsHistory(int jobId) for recent constraint change tracking. Accessibility Updates
- Accessibility announcements are deprecated; developers are encouraged to use setAccessibilityPaneTitle() and setAccessibilityLiveRegion() for optimization. Cloud-Based Photo Searching
- The developer preview includes new APIs to enable cloud media searches in the Android photo picker, with search functionality coming shortly. Enhanced Security Measures
- Android 16 strengthens security, supporting robust WiFi location features with WiFi 6's 802.11az, enabling enhanced accuracy and encryption against potential threats.
Looking ahead, Google intends to release a major SDK update in Q2 2025 focused on behavioral changes, followed by a smaller update in Q4 to resolve remaining bugs. Android 16 is projected to achieve platform stability by March 2025.
