Android 16 Beta 2: Enhancements for Pixel Devices and Beyond
Introduction
Following the initial release of Android 16 Beta 1 last month, Google has unveiled Android 16 Beta 2, an "Incremental Beta-quality release" now available for Pixel devices. This update brings a host of new features and improvements, particularly in the areas of media, camera, and television support.
Media and Camera Enhancements
Android 16 Beta 2 introduces enhancements specifically designed for professional camera users. These include:
- RAW Image Support: This feature provides full access to RAW image data, giving photographers more control over exposure, white balance, and other image parameters.
- Enhanced Dynamic Range: The camera now supports HDR+ with Dynamic Range Optimization, which allows for capturing a wider range of tones and colors in a single shot.
- New Depth Sensor: This feature utilizes the Pixel Depth Engine to create more accurate depth maps, resulting in improved portrait mode effects and faster focus acquisition.
Television Support
Android 16 Beta 2 introduces standardized APIs for audio and picture profiles, as well as access to hardware-related settings on televisions. This opens up new possibilities for developers to create apps that seamlessly integrate with smart TVs.
- Audio Profile Control: Developers can now access and adjust audio profiles, such as surround sound and volume levels, to optimize audio playback for different content types and environments.
- Picture Profile Control: This feature allows developers to adjust picture profiles, including brightness, contrast, and color temperature, to ensure optimal image quality on different display types and lighting conditions.
- Hardware Access: Android 16 provides access to hardware-related settings, such as HDMI CEC, allowing developers to control external devices directly from the TV interface.
Other Updates in Android 16 Beta 2
In addition to the media, camera, and television enhancements, Android 16 Beta 2 includes a number of other updates:
- Improved Battery Life: The Adaptive Battery feature has been optimized to further extend battery life by identifying and limiting the activity of power-intensive apps.
- Redesigned Quick Settings: The Quick Settings panel has been redesigned with a new aesthetic and improved functionality, making it easier to access and manage settings.
- Enhanced Privacy Controls: Android 16 introduces new privacy protections, including the ability to grant apps access to only certain types of data on a per-app basis.
- Google Pixel Watch Support: The update includes optimizations and enhancements for the Google Pixel Watch, including improved connectivity and performance.
Availability and Feedback
Android 16 Beta 2 is available for Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a, Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel Pro Fold devices.
Users can provide feedback through the Android Beta Feedback app on Pixel devices or via the Android Beta community on Reddit. Android 16 Beta 2 system images with the February 2025 security patch are also available for download by developers.
