Android fans, it is time. After nearly seven months of developer previews and betas, the official Android 16 update is now available for the Pixel 6 and newer Pixel models. If you head to your Settings app to check for an update, you should have Android 16 waiting for you.
Android 16 as a whole is shaping up to be one of the most significant Android updates we’ve seen in years, thanks to things like Material 3 Expressive, the redesigned quick settings layout, the new lock screen customization options, and more. Unfortunately, you won’t find any of that in the official update Google started rolling out yesterday.
While this Android 16 update is a critical step in getting closer to those big changes, you’re going to be waiting a while longer before you can use them — even after updating to Android 16. Confused? Let me explain.
Android 16 stable release: Hot or not? 1664 votes Hot 45 % Not 55 %
Android 16 vs. Android 16 QPR1
Paul Jones / Android Authority
Google has effectively split up its Android 16 update into two distinct versions: Android 16 and Android 16 QPR1. The Android 16 update that’s rolling out to Pixels now is that first version.
While you’d expect the shift from Android 15 to Android 16 to be a dramatic one, the reality is that it’s not. At least, not from a user-facing perspective. There are plenty of behind-the-scenes changes, API updates, and more, but most of it’s not stuff you’ll immediately notice or see in daily use.
That can make this Android 16 update feel rather boring and underwhelming, and rightfully so. But at the same time, Android 16 is essential as it lays the foundation for the big changes coming with Android 16 QPR1.
Joe Maring / Android Authority
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