Google has officially broken its traditional release cycle by launching the Android 16 Developer Preview much earlier than expected. Codenamed “Baklava,” this new version aims to accelerate innovation and provide a more stable platform for foldable and large-screen devices.
1. Compatible Devices
Currently, the Android 16 Developer Preview is exclusively available for Google Pixel devices. Supported models include:
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- Pixel 6, 6 Pro, and 6a
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- Pixel 7, 7 Pro, and 7a
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- Pixel 8, 8 Pro, and 8a
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- Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, and 9 Pro Fold
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- Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold
2. Method A: Using the Android Flash Tool (Easiest)
The Android Flash Tool is a web-based utility that allows you to install Android 16 directly from your browser (Chrome or Edge) via USB.
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- Go to the Settings > About Phone and tap “Build Number” 7 times to enable Developer Options.
- In Developer Options, enable USB Debugging and OEM Unlocking.
- Connect your Pixel to your computer using a high-quality USB cable.
- Visit the Android Flash Tool website.
- Select the “Android 16 Developer Preview” build and follow the on-screen instructions to “Wipe Device” and “Flash” the firmware.
3. Method B: Manual Flashing via Factory Images
For those who prefer the traditional route, you can manually flash the system image using ADB and Fastboot commands.
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- Download the correct system image for your device from the Android Developer Portal.
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- Extract the ZIP file on your computer.
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- Open a terminal/command prompt in the extracted folder.
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- Boot your phone into Bootloader mode (
adb reboot bootloader).
- Boot your phone into Bootloader mode (
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- Run the flash-all script:
./flash-all.sh (Linux/Mac) or flash-all.bat (Windows)
- Run the flash-all script:
4. Enabling Experimental Features via ADB
Once you have Android 16 installed, many of the most exciting features are hidden behind “Feature Flags.” You can toggle these using ADB commands to test experimental UI changes.
Example: Enabling the New Notification Cooling
Android 16 introduces a way to prevent notification fatigue. To test similar experimental flags, use the following command structure:
adb shell settings put global [feature_flag_name] 1
5. Key Android 16 Features to Explore
Once you’ve successfully updated, look out for these specific developer-centric additions:
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- Embedded Photo Picker: A more integrated way for apps to request access to specific photos without needing full library permissions.
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- Health Records API: Early access to APIs that allow apps to read and write medical records in FHIR format (with explicit user consent).
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- Advanced Multitasking: New “bubble” configurations for apps on tablets and foldables.
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- Updated Privacy Sandbox: The latest iterations of Google’s ad-tracking replacement.
Conclusion
Android 16 “Baklava” represents a shift toward more frequent, modular updates. By enabling the Developer Preview today, you’re getting a six-month head start on the future of Android. Just remember to keep your bootloader unlocked and stay tuned for the Public Beta, which is expected to arrive in early 2025 for a more stable experience.
