- By Alex David
- Wed, 03 Dec 2025 11:52 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Google Android 16 Update: Google will release Android 16 QPR2 this week, and while it likely won't make headlines for its everyday usage improvements, it nonetheless marks an essential shift in how Android evolves over time. Instead of holding onto features for one big annual release only, features will now be released more regularly so users don't have to wait months before experiencing new tools.
Android 16 QPR2 Update: New Features
AI-Enhanced Notifications
Notifications tend to pile up fast, especially inside active chats. You will see 2 major upgrades with this Android 16 update:
AI Notification Summaries: Long messages will no longer be an issue, as they can now be automatically broken into brief highlights, making it easier for you to keep up with everything.
Automatic Notification Organisation: Low-priority alerts like promo messages, online updates, or any other noise are automatically grouped or muted so your lock screen and status bar remain focused on what matters.
Deeper Personalisation Options
Google is also giving users more freedom to shape how their phones feel. You can pick from new custom icon shapes, and themed icons now apply across more apps automatically, giving the interface a cleaner, more uniform look.
Android 16 also upgrades the dark theme. Even apps that don’t support dark mode can be forced into a darker appearance, which should help during nighttime use.
Built-In Parental Controls
Families get their own meaningful upgrade. Android 16 introduces a dedicated, PIN-locked Parental Controls section inside system settings, allowing parents to:
- Set daily screen limits
- Schedule quiet hours at night
- Restrict or block specific apps
- Grant more time when necessary
Everything is handled natively, without needing separate tools or third-party apps.
Android 16 Update Eligible Devices
According to the report by 9to5Google, the stable Android 16 QPR2 update for the following devices:
- Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a
- Pixel 7, 7 Pro, 7a
- Pixel Tablet,
- Pixel Fold,
- Pixel 8, 8 Pro, 8a,
- Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold,
- Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold
Android 16 Update: Availability
This is a phased rollout and has started to roll out to the eligible Pixel devices. More Android devices will be receiving it in upcoming phases.
This update doesn't reinvent Android; rather, it aims to reduce real-world friction – from alert management and personalisation, through screen time management and timer settings, to screen time tracking and scheduling. As a result, people are experiencing their devices more thoughtfully.
