The first Developer Preview of Android 16 has come up with a sneak peek into the direction Google moving forward with its mobile operating system. The early version comes with a mix of returning features, fresh ideas and developer tools. It is not all excitement yet and let us break down the notable changes in Android 16 Developer Preview 1.
Android 16 Named as Baklava
Google has always had a playful tradition of naming Android versions after desserts. The codename is “Baklava” for Android 16. It is a fun addition and sets the tone for the way Google has continued to keep things lighthearted in its development journey. Seeing this name tucked into the system settings adds a small and quirky charm. Let us be honest here and not to consider that a name alone makes an OS exciting.
Audio Sharing
Audio Sharing is back. The feature first appeared in Android 15 previews but failed to make it to the final release. It is here again in Android 16 to allow devices with Bluetooth LE Audio support to pair and share audio streams. The idea is cool that one can play music and simultaneously let a friend listen in with their Bluetooth headphones.
Google has made this feature easier to set up by improving the settings layout. Let us wait and watch whether it hits the final version.
Goodbye Do Not Disturb, Hello Modes
The Do Not Disturb (DND) feature has been replaced and Android 16 has introduced “Modes.” The new approach lets users create custom modes which are tailored to various activities like gaming, bedtime or work. The flexibility is great and comes at a cost. It is no more a quick one-tap action. DND now requires navigating through menus or switching modes.
This change could make sense for users who want more granular control and it might frustrate to those who loved the simplicity of DND. Modes feels like one of those changes that need user feedback before being declared a success.
Notification: Quiet Return
Another returning feature is Notification Cooldown that aims to prevent notification overload. If your phone detects an app bombarding you with alerts, it will lower the volume and minimize notifications for a brief period.
The feature has potential and especially for those who value a little peace and quiet. It is nice to see Google refining it with a polished user interface and yet it is more of a minor convenience than a game-changer.
Making Wi-Fi Sharing Cuter
Android 16 gives the QR code a cute makeover for sharing Wi-Fi network. It is a minor visual update and small touches like this make everyday interactions more enjoyable. It is not a must-have feature, but adds a bit of fun to a routine task.
Subtle but Important Tweaks for Developers
Android 16 comes with several updates aimed at developers but won’t be noticeable immediately to the average user.
- Photo Picker now feels more integrated within apps. It is simplifying media selection for users.
- Health Connect adds support for reading and writing medical records in FHIR format and this could pave the way for better health-focused apps.
- Privacy Sandbox improves user privacy while refining tools for developers who are working on advertising.
The updates reinforce commitment of Google to both user experience and app development, but they are not the kind of features that generate buzz among everyday users.
Is Android 16 Living Up to Expectations?
Many features of Android 16 feel like incremental updates rather than transformative changes.
It is also worth noting that early previews are always rough around the edges. It is hard to judge the potential of Android 16 now. The coming months will determine how the features evolve and whether they are polished for a wider rollout or quietly disappear in future updates.
Verdict
Android 16 Developer Preview 1 hints at a focus on customization, convenience and developer tools. But it is not a groundbreaking release now. The “Baklava” codename and Wi-Fi sharing tweaks are fun and practical features like Modes and Audio Sharing will ultimately determine whether Android 16 delivers real value to users.
One thing is clear that Google is refining its vision of Android rather than reinventing it. Whether that is enough to keep users excited will depend on how these early ideas are executed in the final product.
