Google may roll out Android 16 as early as June

Days after Google confirmed that the rollout of Android 16 -- the next version of the world's most popular mobile ecosystem -- will take place much earlier than the previous version, a new report has hinted at a timeline of as early as June. While Pixel devices will receive the next Android version almost immediately after the release, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) will get their hands on the Android Open-Source Project (AOSP) files around the same time.

Android Headlines has said the launch of Android 16 could take place on June 3, 2025 -- nearly five months before the Android 15 rollout schedule. Google released Android 15 to Pixel devices on October 15 even though it began the developer beta programme towards the beginning of 2024. A June rollout may also mean that Google will cut short the beta programme duration for developers.

Google had previously said that it is expediting the Android rollout timeline for next year to ensure Android 16 is available to partner devices by fall. That means the availability of AOSP in June will allow OEMs to release their custom mobile operating systems, such as Samsung's One UI, Xiaomi's HyperOS, and Oppo's ColorOS, starting July through September. It will also fall in line with the shift in launches of their flagship phones from December-January to September-November. Not to mention, Google has also shifted the launch of Pixel smartphones from October to August this year to gain an upper hand over Apple , which typically releases its new iPhone models in September.

Android 16's original rollout will be followed by a release of a minor update later in 2025, focused on quick integration of AI technologies. A two-legged approach to Android version rollout could also allow OEMs to organise updates better and streamline AI changes to their mobile platforms more efficiently.