Google has announced a significant shift in its update release strategy.
Traditionally rolled out between August and October, the tech giant now plans to release its latest operating system, Android 16, earlier than anticipated. According to 9to5Google, the new OS will be available for installation on devices as early as the first half of 2025.
A Year of Big Changes Ahead
Historically, Google has released major updates in the third quarter of each year. However, the company intends to launch Android 16 in the second quarter of 2025. “To better align device launch timelines across the ecosystem, enabling more devices to receive the major Android version sooner,” Google stated on its developer website. This adjustment aims to reduce the wait time for new device models to receive the latest version of Android.
Users can expect Android 16 in the first half of the year, followed by a supplemental update toward year-end. “The smaller Q4 release will include feature updates, optimizations, and bug fixes from the major release. It will also introduce new developer APIs but won’t feature any app-impacting behavior changes,” Google clarified.
Additionally, Google plans to deliver incremental updates throughout the year. These updates will focus on improving system quality and adding new features, ensuring a smoother and more dynamic user experience.
