Android 16 will ship early in 2025

Google is changing its Android update release schedule for 2025, moving from a fall release to a Q2 release. The next major Android update, Android 16, codenamed "Baklava," will be released earlier to align with device launches across the ecosystem. This change aims to allow more devices to receive the major release of Android sooner. The new schedule addresses a long-standing issue where third-party phones had to wait months or longer to get the latest updates. Google Pixel phones have typically been the first to receive new releases, but the new schedule could benefit other manufacturers. The updated schedule includes a major release in Q2 and a minor SDK release in Q4, which will add new features without changing the underlying systems. This change will require developers to shift compatibility testing forward. However, it will also give apps more reasons to support new features, such as ongoing notifications, as more devices will be able to use them immediately. Additionally, Google is planning improvements to the Play Store, allowing users to share preferences for better app recommendations. The company is also adding more Gemini AI features in Android Studio to help developers write, refactor, and document code in apps.