Google Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro and newer Pixel smartphones now eligible for first Android 16 update
Google has now made the first version of Android 16 available to download. As always, the company is offering a Developer Preview to start with. Thus, we would not recommend installing Android 16 for the time being on a day-to-day or work device.
Unsurprisingly, Google is focusing on introducing developer-focused changes for the time being. Nonetheless, its latest Android Developers Blog post provides a few tidbits for consumers. On the one hand, Google has reiterated that stable versions of Android 16 will begin shipping in Q2 2025. In other words, expect to see Pixel devices receiving a major OS update in April, May or June.
On the other hand, it appears that Google plans to offer Android 16 to more devices than expected too. Specifically, Android 16 Developer Preview 1 can be downloaded on the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro (curr. $190 - renewed on Amazon), despite official software support ending last month. For now at least, there is no guarantee that these devices will be eligible for stable Android 16 builds.
However, the release of the Pixel 6a may ensure that its flagship peers finish on one more Android update than planned. As Mishaal Rahman notes, official software support for the Pixel 6a finishes after Android 16 is due to arrive. Hence, Google will have to get Android 16 working on its Tensor G1 chipset, which also powers the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. Consequently, there is a chance that all Pixel 6 series models will receive Android 16, albeit not for a while yet.
Source(s)
Google via Android Police & Mishaal Rahman, Amjith S (Unsplash) - Image credits
