For years, Android has stuck to one major release per year for its mobile operating system (OS). Typically, the major Android update happens sometime in the second half of the year. However, the Android 16 update will happen much earlier next year.
In case you didn't know, Android 15 was announced in September and was officially available with selected Google Pixel phones on 15 October 2024. But according to an official announcement, the Android 16 update will be released in Q2 2025 instead. This major update will include behaviour changes that could change the way apps work or interact. It should also have new APIs and features.
The schedule change will mean that developers have less time between the release of Android 15 and Android 16 to get their apps ready. Developers will have to start compatibility tests much earlier, so Android will open the developer preview and beta program much earlier.
Besides the major update in Q2 2025, Android is promising a minor release in Q4 2025. This update will not introduce any behavioural changes to apps but will include new APIs and features. Furthermore, new features will be introduced in Q1 and Q3 every year. This also means we can expect new features for Android 15 in Q1 2025.
Generally, this update is more relevant to Android app developers. But even for general users like us, this schedule change means we'll get Android updates more often. Will that be better for Android smartphone users? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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