Google released the stable version of Android 16 on June 10, 2025, beginning with its Pixel lineup. The update brings a range of new features and performance improvements, and other manufacturers such as Samsung and Infinix are expected to follow later in the year.
The rollout marks a significant milestone in Google’s mobile operating system calendar. For the first time, the company shifted its release schedule slightly earlier compared to previous years, aligning the final build with the first half of 2025.
While Pixel users can install the update immediately, owners of devices from other brands will need to wait for custom skins and carrier testing to complete. The exact timing for each manufacturer varies, and some details remain unconfirmed.
When is the Android 16 release date?
Google made Android 16 available to supported Pixel devices on June 10, 2025. Some reports list June 11 due to time zone differences and the gradual nature of over‑the‑air (OTA) rollouts. The first public beta arrived on January 23, 2025, giving developers and early adopters several months to test the software before the final launch.
June 10, 2025 (Pixel first)
January 23, 2025
Pixel 6 and newer
Samsung, Infinix, etc. later in 2025
Key insights
- Android 16 was finalized on June 10, 2025, rolling out first to Pixel devices.
- Google released the first beta on January 23, 2025, following a slightly altered timeline from previous Android versions.
- Samsung, Infinix, and other OEMs typically receive Android updates months after Pixel due to custom skins and carrier testing.
- India release date often lags by a few weeks globally; no official India‑specific date has been announced as of June 2025.
- The beta program included participation from brands like Honor, OnePlus, OPPO, and Xiaomi, but not Infinix.
- Google shipped a quarterly update (QPR2) in December 2025, demonstrating ongoing support after the initial release.
- The developer preview phase started as early as November 2024, with two preview builds before the first beta.
Snapshot facts: Android 16
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Official name | Android 16 (code name not officially revealed) |
| Initial stable release | June 10, 2025 |
| Current version | Android 16.0.0 (as of June 2025) |
| Supported Pixel lineup | Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, Fold, Tablet, and later models |
| Samsung update | Expected Q3 2025 for Galaxy S24 series and newer |
| Infinix update | Typically 4‑6 months after Pixel release |
What devices are supported for Android 16?
Google’s own Pixel lineup from the Pixel 6 series onward can install Android 16. Older models such as the Pixel 5 are not eligible for the OS upgrade. Other manufacturers have their own rollout schedules that depend on custom interface development and regional certification.
Pixel devices
PhoneArena lists the following Pixel models as supported: Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel Fold, Pixel Tablet, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a, Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Android Central confirms that all Pixels starting with the 6 series can receive the update.
Samsung Galaxy devices
Samsung began rolling out Android 16 through its One UI skin at the end of August 2025, according to Android Central. The first Samsung models expected to get the update include the Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25+, Galaxy S25 Ultra, Galaxy S25 Edge, Galaxy Z Fold 6, and Galaxy Z Flip 6.
Samsung’s One UI 8 integrates Android 16 with additional features, which causes a delay compared to the Pixel release. Users on flagship devices from the S24 series and newer are likely to receive the update first, but the exact date for each model has not been officially announced.
Infinix devices
No direct evidence confirms an Infinix Android 16 rollout schedule or supported‑device list at this time. Google opened the beta program to several major OEMs, but Infinix was not named among them. Historically, Infinix releases major Android updates roughly four to six months after the Pixel launch, though this remains a pattern‑based estimate rather than a confirmed plan.
How to download Android 16?
Eligible Pixel devices can obtain Android 16 over the air through the standard system update menu. Users can also sideload the update manually on supported Pixels using the factory images provided by Google.
Over‑the‑air update
Google says eligible Pixel devices can get Android 16 over the air. The update appears gradually, so not all users see it at the same time. Checking Settings > System > System update is the recommended way to trigger the download.
Sideloading and developer options
For those who prefer a manual approach, Android Authority confirms that sideloading is possible on supported Pixels. Developers can also use system images in the Android Emulator if they do not own a Pixel device. The official Android 16 developer page provides the necessary files and instructions for flashing a Google Pixel device or setting up an emulator.
The Android Emulator in Android Studio includes system images for Android 16. This allows developers to test their apps even without physical hardware. The emulator setup is available through the Android 16 developer page on the official site.
What time will Android 16 be released?
Android 16 did not have a single global release time. Google pushed the OTA update starting June 10, 2025, and the rollout expanded over several days. Some users reported receiving the update on June 11 depending on their region and carrier.
- Developer Preview 1 – November 19, 2024
- Developer Preview 2 – December 18, 2024
- Beta 1 – January 23, 2025
- Beta 2 – February 13, 2025
- Beta 3 / Platform Stability milestone – March 13, 2025
- Beta 4 – April 17, 2025 (with minor refinements like Beta 4.1 in May)
- Stable release to Pixels – June 10, 2025
- Post‑launch quarterly releases – Q4 2025 (QPR2 arrived in December 2025)
What is confirmed and what remains unclear about the Android 16 release?
Some details about the Android 16 rollout are firmly established, while others depend on manufacturer announcements that have not yet been made. The table below separates confirmed facts from areas where information is still pending.
| Established information | Information that remains unclear |
|---|---|
| Android 16 stable release date: June 10, 2025 (confirmed by Google). | Exact date for Samsung Galaxy devices – not officially announced. |
| First beta: January 23, 2025. | Exact date for Infinix phones – not announced. |
| Pixel devices supported: Pixel 6 and later. | India‑specific release date – no official statement. |
| Beta program included Honor, iQOO, Lenovo, OnePlus, OPPO, Realme, Vivo, and Xiaomi. | Exact time of day for OTA push – typically rolling out gradually. |
| Samsung One UI rollout began end of August 2025. | Full list of all OEMs receiving Android 16 and their expected dates. |
What does Android 16 mean for users?
Android 16 continues Google’s focus on privacy and productivity, building on features introduced in Android 15. The release timeline shifted slightly earlier compared to its predecessor, possibly to align with Pixel hardware launches. Samsung’s One UI 8 will integrate Android 16 with additional features, causing a delay for Galaxy users. Region‑specific delays, particularly in India, are common due to carrier certification and localization requirements.
The update also marks a change in Google’s release cadence. By shipping a QPR2 update in December 2025, the company demonstrated continued support beyond the initial stable build. This approach gives users incremental improvements without waiting for a full version upgrade.
Where does the information come from?
Google itself confirmed the stable release on its official blog on June 10, 2025. The Android Developers site provides download files and device compatibility lists. PhoneArena and Android Authority have reported on the beta timeline and supported devices. Android Central covered the Samsung One UI rollout that began at the end of August 2025.
“Today, we’re bringing you Android 16, rolling out first to supported Pixel devices with more phone brands to come later this year.”
Google Blog, June 10, 2025
“The first beta was released on January 23, 2025. Google released the final version on June 10, 2025.”
Wikipedia, accessed June 2025
“Android 16 OTAs and downloads are available for the following Pixel devices: Pixel 6 and 6 Pro; Pixel 6a; Pixel 7 and 7 Pro; Pixel 7a; Pixel Fold; Pixel Tablet.”
Android Developers, June 2025
Summary: What to expect next?
Android 16 is now available for Pixel devices, with Samsung’s One UI rollout already underway. Infinix and other brands are expected to follow later in the year. Android 17 development is already in progress, with early previews likely in late 2025 or early 2026. For more on upcoming releases, see the Forza Horizon 6 Release Date.
Frequently asked questions about Android 16
What is the Android 17 release date?
No official date has been announced. Android 17 is expected to enter developer preview in late 2025 or early 2026.
Will Android 16 work on my non‑Pixel device?
Eventually, yes. Samsung, Infinix, and other brands will release updates after customizing the OS. Check your manufacturer’s update schedule.
Can I install Android 16 on a Pixel 5?
No. The Pixel 5 and older devices are excluded from the Android 16 OS upgrade. Only Pixel 6 series and newer are supported.
How long does the Android 16 OTA update take?
The download size varies by device. Installation typically takes 10 to 30 minutes. A stable Wi‑Fi connection and sufficient battery are recommended.
Is Android 16 available in India?
Yes, the global stable rollout includes India for Pixel devices. No separate India‑specific release date has been announced for other brands.
Which Samsung phones get Android 16 first?
The Galaxy S25 series, Galaxy Z Fold 6, and Galaxy Z Flip 6 are among the first expected to receive the update through One UI.
Does Infinix have a beta program for Android 16?
Infinix was not listed among the OEMs participating in the Android 16 beta program. No beta entry has been confirmed for the brand.
What is Android 16 QPR2?
QPR2 stands for Quarterly Platform Release 2. It arrived in December 2025 and includes additional features and bug fixes beyond the initial stable build.
Can I sideload Android 16 without a computer?
No. Sideloading requires a computer and the Android Debug Bridge (ADB) tool. Most users should wait for the OTA update.
Will Android 16 improve battery life?
Google has included performance and power management improvements in Android 16, but actual battery impact depends on device usage and model.
Amelia Grant is Technology & Media Editor at NewsPrism.co.uk, covering AI, platforms, cybersecurity, consumer tech and the media landscape.