Which phones will get Android 16 update first?

Google is switching things up this year. Rather than waiting for its traditional Pixel showcase in October, the tech giant has confirmed Android 16 is going live in June 2025.

This makes it the fastest rollout we’ve seen for a new Android version. The announcement came straight from this year’s Android Show, catching many off guard (in a good way).

ALSO READ: Android Show: I/O Edition steals the spotlight ahead of Google’s annual developer conference

Part of the reason for the accelerated timeline? Google began testing Android 16 far earlier than usual, with Beta 4 already out for eligible devices. Now, it’s full steam ahead toward a stable release; and Pixel phones, as always, get first dibs.

Which phones are getting Android 16 first?

If you own a Pixel, this is your cue to smile. The Android 16 update will start hitting these devices first come June 2025:

– Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a
– Pixel 7, 7 Pro, 7a
– Pixel 8, 8 Pro, 8a
– Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold, 9a
– Pixel Fold

Yes, even the Fold and XL models are in line for the upgrade. Android 16 is likely to be a larger install than previous versions, so make sure your storage is ready for the drop.

Other Android heavyweights like Samsung, OnePlus, Nothing, and Oppo aren’t far behind. With Samsung now offering up to seven years of OS updates on its flagships, users can expect One UI 8 (based on Android 16) to follow closely after the Pixel wave.

Android 16 features to expect

Google’s always dabbled in aesthetics, but Android 16’s new design language, Material 3 Expressive, goes beyond the surface. The visual overhaul brings fluid animations, more cohesive notification cards, and an interface that actually feels alive.

It’s not just about beauty either. The new UI is designed to be more responsive, creating a sense of depth and motion that feels less like code and more like choreography.

Taking a page from Apple’s Live Activities, Android 16 introduces real-time updates directly on your lock screen. Need to track your cab, food order, or that late-night parcel? Just glance at your phone.

Security’s getting a smart boost too. Android 16 introduces a more robust lost device protection system, ensuring that even if your phone falls into the wrong hands, your data doesn’t.

ALSO READ: Android 16’s new security feature could save your phone from thieves

AI is doing more of the heavy lifting now, including on-device scam detection for messages. No cloud, no delay, just instant, private, and intelligent filtering.

And for the privacy-obsessed, Android’s new Advanced Protection toggle brings all security settings under one switch. Think of it as the digital equivalent of locking down your phone with a panic button.

Excited to try out Android 16? Drop a comment with your thoughts and stay tuned to Unboxed by Croma for the latest in the world of tech.