Google Rolls Out Android 16 Beta 3 With New Features and Privacy Upgrades

Highlights

• Android 16 Beta 3 enhances accessibility with improved Bluetooth Auracast support, standardised QR codes, outline text and introduces Local Network Protection.
• The stable version of Android 16 is expected in May or June 2025 with Pixel devices likely receiving it first.
• Samsung is internally testing One UI 8 based on Android 16 and may skip One UI 7.1.

Google has released Android 16 Beta 3, bringing notable improvements and new features. According to Google’s timeline, the Android 16 stable version could arrive as early as May or June with Pixel devices likely among the first to receive it by the end of the month. However, Google may roll out another beta update in April to fix remaining bugs before the release of the stable version.

Here’s what we know about Android 16 Beta 3.

Android 16 Beta 3 – What’s New?

Better Bluetooth Auracast Support

Google has improved Bluetooth Auracast with standardised QR codes for joining audio broadcasts and better compatibility with hearing aid equipment, making it more accessible for users with hearing impairments.

Outline Text Support

The update also introduces outline text support, catering to users with vision impairments.

Local Network Protection

A major addition is Local Network Protection, which allows users to control which apps can access devices on their local network. This feature is expected to be a part of a future major Android release and is another step toward enhancing privacy and security.

Android 16 and Samsung’s Plans

With Android 16 now reaching platform stability, Samsung has already started internally testing its One UI 8, based on the new update. However, a Samsung Community moderator has hinted that a public beta is unlikely anytime soon.

Samsung might skip One UI 7.1 entirely and move straight to One UI 8.0 after completing the stable rollout of One UI 7 (Android 15).

As of now, details about Android 16-based custom skins from other smartphone brands remain unclear. But with Android 16 Beta 3, Google is making steady progress toward a stable and feature-packed final release.

FAQs

Q1. When will the stable version of Android 16 be released?

Answer. The stable version of Android 16 is expected to arrive in May or June 2025, with Pixel devices likely being the first to receive it by the end of the month.

Q2. What new features does Android 16 Beta 3 introduce?

Answer. Android 16 Beta 3 includes better Bluetooth Auracast support, outline text for users with vision impairments, and Local Network Protection to control app access to devices on the local network, enhancing accessibility and privacy.

Q3. What are Samsung’s plans for Android 16?

Answer. Samsung has begun internally testing One UI 8, based on Android 16, and may skip One UI 7.1 entirely. However, a public beta for One UI 8 remains unlikely for now.

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