In an exciting move for developers and tech enthusiasts alike, Google has launched the second Developer Preview of Android 16, as it prepares for its official release in the second quarter of 2025. This latest update marks what is expected to be the final Android update for the year, coming on the heels of the Android 15 QPR2 Beta 2, which was released earlier this week.
Android 16 Developer Preview 2 is packed with enhancements aimed at improving the overall app experience, extending battery life, and boosting performance. Among the most noteworthy changes are new APIs that will empower applications to deliver richer haptic feedback. Previous versions of Android only allowed for limited control over the haptic actuator. With the introduction of Android 16, developers can now define amplitude and frequency curves for haptic effects, simplifying the experience across different devices.
Another significant improvement in Android 16 DP2 is its support for adaptive refresh rates (ARR). Originally introduced in Android 15, ARR allows device displays to adjust the refresh rate according to content frame rates, helping to conserve battery power while minimizing the jank that can occur during mode-switching. This makes for smoother visual experiences, enhancing user satisfaction.
The update also improves the system photo picker by integrating cloud search functionalities, which will soon be accessible to both app developers and end-users, effectively streamlining file management. Additionally, Health Connect now includes a new ACTIVITY_INTENSITY data type that distinguishes between moderate and vigorous activities. This addition could help users track their fitness levels more accurately, catering to an increasingly health-conscious demographic.
Further, Android 16 DP2 introduces new APIs that enhance gesture navigation. One notable feature is the implementation of predictive back system animations, which improve the visual transition from back to home, contributing to a more fluid user interface.
The Developer Preview 2 system images are currently available for an extensive range of Pixel devices, including Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, and the latest Pixel 8 series, among others. Those devices running the first Developer Preview of Android 16 will receive an Over-The-Air (OTA) update to the new version. For developers who might have installed Beta 2 from the Android 15 QPR2 Beta program, a flash to Android 16 DP2 can be done without the need to wipe the device, simplifying the transition between versions.
It is essential to note that Android 16 DP2 (designated as BP21.241121.009) still remains a developer-only release, not recommended for daily or consumer use just yet. The upcoming Android 16 Beta Program is set to launch next month, promising more accessibility for users eager to explore the features of the new operating system. As Google continues to fine-tune its offerings, the anticipation is building for both developers and consumers alike, looking forward to the enhancements that Android 16 promises to bring to the Android ecosystem.