Android 16 release in Q2 2025 could fast-track One UI 8

Android 16 could be released early in 2025, paving the way for faster One UI 8 arrival. Per the official announcement, Google plans to release Android 16 in Q2 2025, rather than the conventional Q3 timeframe.

Recently, Baklava surfaced as Android 16’s codename, suggesting a major shift in dessert and internal naming strategy. It seems the naming strategy isn’t only changing, but Google is preparing a faster Android debut, starting in 2025.

Early Android 16 debut could help Samsung deploy One UI 8 earlier than the One UI 7. Google believes early OS launch will “better align with the schedule of device launches across our ecosystem, so more devices can get the major release of Android sooner.”

The strategic change will also help Android vendors to launch their latest devices with the most updated OS from day one. Those Android flagships won’t have to wait for a major upgrade to adopt new changes and features.

Google revealed that there will be a major release in Q2, along with a minor SDK release in Q4. It indicates that the Android 16 could launch in the second quarter, while Android users can expect a big feature drop in the fourth quarter.

Google’s proposed new schedule could make it easier for non-Pixel Android vendors to release new devices with the latest capabilities available on day one instead of waiting for future updates to add things like Circle to Search.

Aside from this, the company disclosed improvements to the Play Store. Users will be able to share preferences for better recommendations on new apps. More Gemini AI features also coming to Android Studio to “write, refactor, and document” code in apps.