Google might shake up its Android release schedule next year, with Android 16 potentially arriving sooner than usual. Reports suggest that the tech giant could launch the next major version of its mobile operating system in Q2 2025, according to recent findings in Google’s internal documentation. This would mark a shift from the typical release timeline, which usually falls around September or October.
Why an Earlier Release for Android 16?
While Android 15’s source code was made available last month, Google’s latest Pixel smartphones have yet to receive the update. This potential early release of Android 16 could ensure that Google’s next lineup of smartphones, likely the Pixel 10 series, ships with Android 16 right out of the box. For context, the Pixel 9 series, which launched recently, is still running Android 14, even though Android 15 is just around the corner. An accelerated timeline could allow Google to better synchronize its software and hardware releases.
Android 16 Codename: ‘Baklava’
In a fun twist, Google has reportedly reset its alphabet-based dessert codenames for Android versions. Android 15 was initially referred to as Vanilla Ice Cream, but internally, Google is now starting the alphabet anew. Android 16 has been given the sweet codename ‘Baklava’—a nod to the delicious layered pastry. This name has already appeared in the Android source code, though some engineers are still referring to it as Android W, leading to some speculation about internal naming conventions.
Hints from Google’s Documentation
The clue to Android 16’s earlier release comes from Google’s Compatibility Definition Document (CDD), where references to “Android 25Q2” were spotted. The “25Q2” points to a second-quarter release in 2025, leading many to believe this is the code for Android 16. Supporting this theory, comments from Google engineers in the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) mention features tied to “25Q2/Android W”, indicating significant changes that align with a major OS update, rather than a minor quarterly platform release (QPR) for Android 15.
Additionally, API-related changes referenced in the Android code indicate that Google will freeze the addition of new APIs for Android 15, which typically happens before the rollout of a new version. This further suggests that Android 16 will arrive sooner than the usual late-year window.
What This Means for Pixel Users
While it’s still unclear whether Google will push an early Android 16 update to its existing Pixel lineup, the earlier release schedule could be a strategy to ensure the Pixel 10 series (or whatever they decide to call it) launches with the latest version of Android pre-installed. This would avoid the situation we’re seeing with the Pixel 9, which is still running an older version despite Android 15’s availability.
A Shift in Android’s Release Strategy?
This potential change in Google’s Android release cadence could signal a shift in how the company approaches its annual updates. By moving to a Q2 launch, Google could better align its OS with its hardware and give manufacturers more time to optimize devices for the new software. It also means that Android users, especially those on Pixel devices, could experience faster updates and access to new features sooner.
Wrapping Up
If these reports are accurate, Android 16 ‘Baklava’ could bring exciting new features to users much earlier than expected. The move to Q2 2025 could give Google the chance to better integrate the latest software with its hardware lineup, offering a smoother experience for Pixel users. As always, we’ll be keeping an eye out for more details as the release date approaches. Stay tuned for further updates on what Android 16 has in store!
