The Android 16 Second developer preview still doesn’t tell us much

Android 15 isn’t rolling out to every smartphone yet, and we’re actually talking about Android 16. Usually, we have a bit of time between when the latest build is released and the first developer preview of the servers. In the past few years, initial developer previews for Android have started in February of the year the software plans to launch. But this year, Google started early. The first developer preview has been released NovemberAnd now Developer Preview II Available for developers to code their applications. This also means that we will have a public beta earlier in the new year.

So far, Android 16 offers minimal new features compared to the last few versions. Cloud-native search comes to the photo picker, so you can easily create year-end Instagram recaps from off-device accounts without switching between apps. Health Connection It will be enhanced by allowing you to record activity intensity via fitness apps. Android 16 also supports devices with 802.11aza thriving standard with additional security improvements. They’re all pretty standard improvements to the platform.

I still find it difficult to identify the main feature of Android 16. What does it offer me as a user? Under the hood, Google is including richer touch elements, better system profile management, and a more responsive adaptive refresh rate. This will certainly make flagship Android phones rise a bit more than they already do, but it doesn’t move the needle on platform innovation.

The Android team seems to be focused on fixing what’s under the hood before the first public beta comes out early next year. For example, this latest developer preview turns off some legacy accessibility icons that interfere with the user experience.

Anyway, I’m not complaining. I have a hard time finding excitement about something that isn’t mine yet. Developer Preview allows developers to revamp their apps for the next operating system since the platform has always struggled for parity across its different brands. Hopefully, Google’s previous call to action will speed up the rollout of the update in 2025.

At the very least, we’ll have a public beta of Android 16 earlier than usual — well before Google’s annual developer conference. View the current schedule at Android development website It says to expect a beta as early as January 2025, with the final release arriving something after April 2025. This time is typically when we’d expect Google I/O, meaning we’ll have Android 16 by the time the developer conference comes around. It starts in the spring. This means a full three to four months earlier than would normally be expected. salary!

If you want it Try the developer preview nowYou can sign up as one and send it to a compatible Pixel device.