Android 16 Set to Launch for Pixel Devices in June, Material 3 Expressive Delayed to Beta

Google has announced that Android 16 will be available for its Pixel devices in June. However, the highly anticipated Material 3 Expressive design language will not accompany this initial release.

Android chief Sameer Samat revealed during the recent Android Show that the final version of Android 16 is nearing completion, although a specific release date within June has not been disclosed. Past reports suggest a possible rollout starting on June 3.

The introduction of Material 3 Expressive is expected to follow separately, with Google indicating that the new design language will be released later in the year. A beta version of Material 3 Expressive is anticipated to be available by the end of the month, allowing users to preview the fresh user interface. This beta is likely part of the Quarterly Platform Releases (QPR), also referred to as Pixel Drops, which Google typically rolls out alongside beta versions.

Analysts speculate that the full version of Material 3 Expressive might not be ready until September or later. It is also possible that the final design could be withheld until the expected launch of the Pixel 10 series in August.

In addition, Samat assured Android users with non-Pixel devices that they will not have to wait long for the Android 16 update. Manufacturers like Samsung are expected to release the update for their devices during the summer months. Some brands, including Honor, OnePlus, Oppo, and Nothing, are already providing early access versions of Android 16 for select smartphones. While Samsung is yet to offer a beta version, they are anticipated to equip their upcoming foldable devices, set to debut in July, with One UI 8 based on Android 16. Reports indicate that Samsung's beta program for One UI 8 could commence at the end of May.

As the final release approaches, current beta testers of Android 16 will need to make a decision regarding their participation. To ensure access to the stable version upon its release, beta users must opt out of the beta phase shortly. Failure to do so will result in automatic enrollment in the next pre-release version, titled Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1, which will provide early access to the new Material 3 Expressive redesign.