Developer Previews are often buggy with broken features, yet Pixel users are still loving the updates in Android 16 DP 1.
Google rolled out the first developer preview of Android 16, way ahead of its usual schedule. DP 1 is not released for general users, but it’s available on eligible devices, free for anyone who wishes to use it. Google has confirmed that the final version of Android 16 will be released in the second quarter instead of Q3 2025.
The purpose of the developer preview was to allow developers to test and fix the issues of Android 16. However, several users have also downloaded new features and found a number of updates providing a better user experience.
Image – Android 16 DP
What’s New in Android 16 Developer Preview 1?
The initial developer preview of Android 16 has several features like audio sharing by Auracast and a much-wanted update for Privacy Dashboard. Some sources also claim that Android 16 is also introducing a feature to protect your OTP. Most Android phones have features to show all notifications on the lock screen, which proves to be a convenient and easy-to-go option for users.
Google plans to address the issue with a feature of Android 16 which will automatically hide the content of sensitive notifications like OTP on the lock screen. According to users, this feature is only working for the OTP as of now, other sensitive information may trigger the feature in the final version. While Google has introduced this feature for better privacy, this may irritate or frustrate users who will have to unlock their phones to get OTP.
Which Devices Are Eligible for Android 16?
Google has also released a list of devices that will receive the final version of Android 16. The list of Android 16 compatible devices is mentioned below.
- Pixel 6
- Pixel 6 Pro
- Pixel 6a
- Pixel 7
- Pixel 7 Pro
- Pixel 7a
- Pixel Tablet
- Pixel Fold
- Pixel 8
- Pixel 8 Pro
- Pixel 8a
- Pixel 9
- Pixel 9 Pro
- Pixel 9 Pro XL
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold
How can you Download the Android 16 Developer Preview 1?
To download Android 16 DP 1, users must have a compatible device (mentioned above). The developer preview is primarily released for test and trial purposes, not for general use. But if you want to download it, make sure to unlock your bootloader because DP 1 can give a rough experience.
The easiest option to download Android 16 DP 1 is to download the Android Flash Tool. This tool lets you easily sideload factory images from one place. To get started, visit flash.android.com/preview/baklava-dp1. If you haven’t yet, you’ll need to install the Android USB driver. Then, just connect your device, confirm it’s linked to the Flash Tool, choose the build you want to install, and you’re all good to go!
