Google has unveiled a plethora of software upgrades for its Pixel smartphones, following Apple's operating system overhauls at WWDC 2025. The tech giant has rolled out a new release of Android 16, introducing a host of improvements and new features aimed at enhancing user experience, accessibility, and customization.
Android 16 brings iOS-style live notifications on the lock screen, providing real-time updates. The new Material 3 Expressive design language adds a fresh aesthetic to the interface. The release also focuses on better accessibility support and improved customization for messaging and contacts.
One of the standout features of Android 16 is the addition of Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) audio device support. This allows users to utilize these devices instead of their phone's microphone for improved call quality. Native controls have also been introduced for volume control on connected devices.
In terms of security, Android 16 boasts new capabilities to safeguard against theft and scams. An updated advanced protection mode ensures the privacy and security of public figures. The release also includes support for corporate badges in Google Wallet, catering to enterprise Android users.
Android 16 on Android tablets will receive desktop-style windowing support later this year, along with custom keyboard shortcuts for app actions. Google Messages is also getting an update, adding RCS group chat support and allowing users to select custom icons and mute notifications for specific chats.
Google Photos is set to receive an array of new features in Android 16 and other supported releases. The app will soon suggest editing tools like erase, move, or "reimagine" for portions of an image, powered by AI.
Other enhancements include the ability to favorite devices in the Google Home app and support for paying for public transit using Google Wallet on Wear OS devices. This eliminates the need to take out your phone.
As part of its regular feature updates for eligible Pixel phones, Google has announced "Pixel Drop." This includes a new "Pixel VIPs" widget that displays interactions with favorites in your contact list. It shows last calls, messages, and updates such as birthdays and locations if the contact chooses to share them.
Pixel phones are also getting more detailed captions for video content, including livestreams. Captions will describe actions like whispering, yawning, or clearing one's throat.
Google is also introducing custom stickers using text prompts directly from its Gboard keyboard. The Recorder app is adding support for AI-powered summaries in French and German. Users in Australia will gain access to Android's Emergency SOS satellite connectivity feature.
Pixel 8a and newer Pixel devices (excluding Pixel 8 and 8 Pro) are getting a battery health indicator. Pixel 5 and later devices will receive a new accessibility feature through the Magnifier app, allowing users to describe an item and receive haptic feedback when a match is found.
Enterprise Android users will benefit from updates such as storing corporate badges in Google Wallet and using Google's Gemini chatbot app in the Google Docs app on Android for summarizing content, gaining insights, and translating text. Google is also enhancing Chrome on Android's handling of PDFs with linked document viewing.
The June Pixel Drop updates are set to roll out starting Tuesday, bringing a plethora of enhancements and new features to Google's Pixel smartphones.