Google releases biggest Android 16 software update yet for Pixel 10 Pro and other smartphones

Google has released its biggest update for Android 16 thus far (Image source: Google)

Google will release major operating system updates twice a year going forward, and the latest Android 16 update marks the debut of this new release schedule. Users of compatible Google Pixel smartphones are the first to get access to many new features.

Hannes Brecher (translated by Enrico Frahn), Published 12/02/2025 🇩🇪

Android Smartphone

Google has released a new Android version in the second quarter of 2025, so the new software has been available just in time for the launch of a new generation of Pixel smartphones. In addition, another major update is planned for the fourth quarter and introduces new APIs for developers as well as new features for users.

That said, the so-called Android 16 QPR2 update is now available for all Pixel smartphones from the Pixel 6 up to the Pixel 10 (from $549 on Amazon), although it may take a few days until the update is offered to all Pixel users. The software contains a few revisions to the user interface. Dark mode now darkens apps that do not officially support this mode, the shape of app icons can be adjusted and Google is adding a widget overview similar to the Apple iPhone, which can be accessed by swiping left on the lock screen.

"Unimportant" notifications are put in one group

Longer push notifications can now be summarized via AI

When a theme is used, the update will also apply color to icons from apps that do not support themes, as the respective icons are generated via AI. Incoming notifications can be automatically summarized by AI after the update, while low-priority messages such as ads are grouped together and shown in a smaller format.

Moreover, a new setting called "Enhanced HDR brightness" allows users to adjust the maximum brightness for HDR images and videos. Blurred backgrounds can now be disabled system-wide and replaced with solid colors. Lastly, a new split-screen mode makes it possible to display one app on 90% of the screen and a second app that occupies only 10%, which is useful for keeping an eye on sports scores or similar.

Source(s)

Google

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Editor of the original article: Hannes Brecher - Senior Tech Writer - 19342 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2018

Since 2009 I have written for different publications with a focus on consumer electronics. I joined the Notebookcheck news team in 2018 and have combined my many years of experience with laptops and smartphones with my lifelong passion for technology to create informative content for our readers about new developments in this sphere. In addition, my design background as an art director at an ad agency has allowed me to have deeper insights into the peculiarities of this industry.

contact me via: @HannesBrecher, LinkedIn, Xing

Translator: Enrico Frahn - Managing Editor Accessory Reviews, Tech Writer - 5822 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2021

My fascination for technology goes back a long way to the Pentium II era. Modding, overclocking and treasuring computer hardware has since become an integral part of my life. As a student, I further developed a keen interest in mobile technologies that can make the stressful college life so much easier. After I fell in love with the creation of digital content while working in a marketing position, I now scour the web to bring you the most exciting topics in the world of tech. Outside the office, I’m particularly passionate about motorsports and mountain biking.

contact me via: LinkedIn

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