Samsung has yet to release the first beta of One UI 7.0 based on Android 15. Meanwhile, Google has released the first developer preview of Android 16.

Google typically starts rolling out developer previews in the first quarter of each year. However, the Android 16 release schedule is three months earlier than usual.

The first developer preview of Android 16 has been released

Google has released the first developer preview of Android 16 for eligible Pixel models. Next, Google plans to release the first public beta in January 2025 and the stable version in Q2 2025.

According to Google, the new schedule is β€œmore consistent with our ecosystem product release schedules, so more devices can get major Android releases sooner.” Google also plans to release another minor Android update in Q4 2025.

So Samsung needs to speed up its software development. It may have to release a stable version of One UI 8.0 in Q3 next year to catch up with Google.

What's new in Android 16?

The first developer preview of Android 16 adds an embedded photo picker, health profiles, and the Android Privacy Sandbox. Other features include Audio Sharing, Privacy Dashboard, and notification cooldowns.

Embedded Photo Picker

Android's Photo Picker is a built-in UI that developers can use to select photos and videos stored locally or in a cloud. It's more secure than developers' custom photo pickers.

The Photo Picker can be updated through Google Play Services and the Google Play Store. In Android 14 and Android 15, developers have the option to enable the new photo picker or not. However, the new photo picker is used by default in Android 16.

Health Records in Health Connect

Apps can read and write to a user's health records in the FHIR format. This feature requires user consent to access sensitive data like heart rate and vaccinations.

Privacy Sandbox on Android

This is a way to protect user privacy while still giving developers a way to promote their products and services. Privacy Sandbox was announced in 2019 and is coming to Android with Android 16.

Audio Sharing with Auracast

Android 16 improves the way audio is shared to multiple Bluetooth headphones and speakers using Auracast technology. Android devices with Bluetooth LE Audio can create an audio stream that multiple compatible Bluetooth audio devices can connect to.

Privacy Dashboard

Android already has a 24-hour view of privacy-related data, such as when apps access the camera, location, and microphone. With Android 16, the Privacy Dashboard can show data for up to seven days.

Notification cooldown

When you receive multiple notifications in a short period of time, Android 16's notification cooldown will lower the notification volume and minimize notifications for up to two minutes. Google says that alarms, calls, and priority notifications are not affected by this feature.

Google may add more features and UI design changes in future developer previews and public betas.