Overview of Android 16 Beta 3
The recent release of Android 16 Beta 3 marks a significant milestone as it achieves platform stability. With the stable version expected to launch in early June, developers now have everything they need to start releasing compatible apps on the Play Store. This beta release, while not adding many new features, ensures that the groundwork is laid for a smooth OS experience.
New Features in Android 16 Beta 3
Among the notable additions in this latest beta is support for Auracast broadcast audio. Initially, this feature is available only on Pixel 9 devices utilizing Android 16 beta and compatible LE audio hearing aids. However, we anticipate that more devices will be compatible once Android 16 officially launches. Another important improvement for accessibility is the ability to outline text for enhanced contrast. This feature is beneficial for users with low vision, addressing challenges they face when trying to distinguish text against backgrounds.
Enrolling in the Android Beta Program
If you are currently using Android 16 Beta 2 or are part of the Android beta program, you will receive an over-the-air update to Beta 3. For those who haven’t yet participated, any owner of a supported Pixel device can enroll in the program to access upcoming updates. Google also emphasizes that the Q2 major release of Android 16 will be the only one in 2025 to introduce behavior changes affecting apps, with minor updates expected in Q4 that will focus on optimizations and bug fixes.
