Android 16 Developer Preview 2 brings new features to Pixel devices

Google has released Developer Preview 2 (DP2) of Android 16 for Pixel devices, ahead of the official launch in Q2 2025. This is likely the final Android update for the year, following the release of Android 15 QPR2 Beta 2 earlier this week.

Key Updates in Android 16 DP2

1. Improved Haptics with New APIs
Android 16 introduces advanced haptic controls, allowing apps to create richer vibration effects. Developers can now adjust amplitude and frequency curves for better compatibility across different devices.

2. Enhanced Adaptive Refresh Rate
Building on Android 15’s Adaptive Refresh Rate, this feature lets displays adjust refresh rates to match content frame rates. This reduces power usage and improves performance without causing screen stuttering.

3. System Photo Picker with Cloud Search
The updated photo picker will include cloud search functionality, making it easier for users and apps to find and access images stored online.

4. Health Connect Upgrades
A new data type, ACTIVITY_INTENSITY, has been added to track physical activities categorized as moderate or vigorous.

5. Gesture Navigation Enhancements
Android 16 improves predictive animations for gesture navigation, including smoother back-to-home transitions.

Device Compatibility and Availability

Android 16 DP2 is available for a wide range of Pixel devices, including the Pixel 6, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel Pro Fold, along with support for the Android Emulator. It features the December 2024 security patch and is meant for developers, not general users. Devices running DP1 can update to DP2 via an OTA update.

New Features for Pixel 9 Series

One standout feature in DP2 is “Screen-off Fingerprint Unlock,” exclusive to the Pixel 9 series. Unlike older Pixel models, the Pixel 9 uses an ultrasonic under-display fingerprint scanner that works even when the screen is off. This setting can be found under:
Settings > Security & privacy > Device unlock > Fingerprint Unlock.

For older Pixel devices, features like “Always show time and info,” “Lift to check phone,” or “Tap to check phone” can serve as alternatives to activate the fingerprint scanner more conveniently.

Emoji Additions from Unicode 16.0

Android 16 DP2 includes seven new emoji from Unicode 16.0, such as:

• Face with Bags Under Eyes
• Fingerprint
• Leafless Tree
• Root Vegetable
• Harp
• Shovel
• Splatter

These emoji are now supported on devices running DP2, enhancing communication and creativity.

Final Thoughts

Android 16 DP2 focuses on improving user experience and adding tools for developers. While most changes target performance and compatibility, unique features like “Screen-off Fingerprint Unlock” and new emoji offer noticeable benefits for users. Stay tuned for more updates as the Android 16 Beta Program begins next month!

• Pixel 9 Pro Fold: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
• Pixel 9 Pro XL: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
• Pixel 9 Pro: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
• Pixel 9: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
• Pixel 8a: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
• Pixel 8 Pro: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
• Pixel 8: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
• Pixel Fold: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
• Pixel Tablet: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
• Pixel 7a: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
• Pixel 7 Pro: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
• Pixel 7: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
• Pixel 6a: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
• Pixel 6 Pro: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA
• Pixel 6: BP21 — Factory Image — OTA