Android 16 is out, complete with live notification updates and new camera features

Google has released Android 16, which is now available for compatible handsets and will come preloaded on new devices in the next few months. The update includes several notable features, such as live updates in notifications, automatic grouping of notifications from the same app, and support for LE audio hearing aids. Users can also switch to the phone's microphone when using hearing devices for clearer audio in noisy places. Google has also tied all of its security features together, allowing users to be protected from online threats with just one tap. The update includes new features for photographers, including automatic night mode scene detection and improved UltraHDR images. Additionally, Android 16 offers integration with the high-end Advanced Professional Video codec. The company is also bringing desktop windowing to Android, although this feature will not be available until later in the year. Other updates include upgraded RCS group chats, a new AI-enhanced image editor, and the ability for Wear OS devices to be paid for transit fares without opening a dedicated app. Finally, Google has offered details on the Pixel Drop for June, which includes a Pixel VIPs widget and more expressive captions on videos.