These are all the most important modifications in Android 16’s Developer Preview 1

Seemingly out of nowhere, Google has seeded the first developer preview build of its upcoming Android 16 replace. Usually, these previews do not come out till early within the new yr, making for a novel development cycle this time round.

Whereas this preview construct is primarily supposed for builders, it is attainable for anybody to obtain and set up it onto Pixel 6 sequence and newer gadgets. Until you recognize what you are entering into, I might advise on holding off for now — down the road, beta builds will likely be accessible, that are typically way more steady.

Within the meantime, here’s what’s new in Android 16 Developer Preview 1, and why these additions and enhancements are vital.

1 Say hiya to Baklava

No, the subsequent model of Android would not begin with a ‘W’

Google / Pocket-lint

We now have official affirmation that Android 16’s code identify is Baklava. Google has a storied historical past in relation to dessert-named software releases, with final yr’s Android 15 being identified internally as Vanilla Ice Cream. Usually, Google comes up with these names in alphabetical order, which makes Baklava an unlikely selection. For these unaware, Baklava is a pastry dessert product of filo, which is well-liked in Jap European and Close to Jap delicacies.

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2 Notification cooldown is again as soon as once more

This one is a serious quality-of-life enchancment

In the event you’ve ever turned on an older smartphone earlier than, you’ve got most likely skilled the next inevitability: a bombardment of outdated notifications. The brand new notification cooldown function takes goal at this downside, by mechanically reducing the amount of incoming alerts.

When enabled, the function is triggered particularly when quite a few notifications are available in on the identical time. As somebody who switches between handsets regularly, this can be a very welcome addition. It was beforehand in testing in Android 15, and I am glad to see it again on this newest construct of Google’s working system.

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3 Audio sharing has lastly arrived

It is the digital equal of these old-school headphone splitters

Audio sharing is a brand new function designed to permit simple multi-user playback of audio content material. For compatibility, each customers want Bluetooth Low Power (LE) compliant headphones. As soon as enabled, audio sharing ought to work not not like these old-school headphone splitter peripherals that many people grew up with. You and a buddy can concurrently take heed to the identical music, podcast, or audiobook, and might accomplish that utilizing your individual pair of headphones and a single host system. For what it is value, Apple has launched its own version of this same feature, which works with the corporate’s AirPods merchandise.

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4 The Settings app has obtained a (minor) facelift

Every little thing is laid out inside categorized bubbles now

With this primary developer preview construct, Google has tweaked Android’s major Settings app interface, however solely in probably the most minor of how. The corporate has segmented top-level settings primarily based on commonality, which roughly aligns with how different working programs handle issues. Personally, I do not know if I am a fan of this redesign. As minor as it’s, I discover myself preferring the minimalism of the earlier rendition. In fact, with time, I think about this new design will develop on me.

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