Android now has SDK releases every 16 months, but Google says it will increase that cadence, with Android 16 coming up in Q2 2025, along with a developer preview in the near future. In the past, SDK updates were only released with the yearly new versions of Android (e.g. from 14 to 15).
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More About the Android 16
In 2025, those big releases will move from Q3 to Q2, which will better line them up with the release schedule for devices coming through Google’s ecosystem, which will in turn mean that more devices will get Android’s big updates earlier. This shift indicates that the Pixel team intends to launch in a late summer or August time period. Google is working along with its device partners to release the Q2 to as many devices as possible.
The newly named Android 16 will introduce various new developer APIs and behavioral changes that could impact applications. This major release will soon begin the developer preview and beta program stages, and Google encourages developers to keep a lookout for news on the first Android 16 preview. These previews have typically been launched in February in recent years.
In Q4 2025, a minor SDK update will be released that will consist of feature updates, optimizations, and bug fixes resulting from the major release. While some new developer APIs will come, there will be no significant behavior changes that will affect apps. Minor releases won’t alter the API level but will implement a new minor API level value, allowing developers to track both major and minor versions.
The first and third quarters of 2025 will continue to see incremental Android updates known as QPRs, designed to provide ongoing quality improvements and new user-facing features. Google also plans to maintain its practice of offering beta versions and system images for advanced testing. Ultimately, these changes are intended to facilitate faster innovation and enhance the quality of releases while minimizing overhead and costs for developers.
FAQs
What is the expected release date for Android 16?
Android 16 is set to be released in Q2 2025, with a developer preview launching soon.
Will there be any minor SDK releases in 2025?
Yes, a minor SDK release is planned for Q4 2025, which will include feature updates, optimizations, and bug fixes, but no major app-impacting changes.
