Android 16: The secret anti-scam feature and compatible phones

Google launches Android 16 with a redesign and a key scam detection feature. Learn all the new features and the official list of phones receiving it.

The new version of Android is now official and is packed with new features. Highlights include a powerful security tool to protect you from scams and a visual redesign. We'll tell you all about the new features and which Pixel phones can install them starting today.

Google has officially released Android 16, the latest version of its mobile operating system, which has already begun rolling out to Pixel devices. Beyond a simple cosmetic tweak, this update focuses on two key pillars: customization and, above all, security, introducing a key feature designed to protect users from the growing threat of online fraud.

With a revamped design dubbed "Material 3 Expressive," Android 16 aims to deliver a more fluid and natural experience, but the most significant changes that will directly impact the daily lives of millions of users are found within its core.

The big news: Integrated scam detection

In a world where fraudulent calls and phishing messages are becoming increasingly sophisticated, Android 16 takes things a step further with advanced scam detection features. Integrated into the Advanced Protection program, the system is now capable of analyzing communications and apps in real time to identify suspicious behavior.

This tool is designed to:

* Alert on malicious apps: Detects apps that try to impersonate others or request improper permissions to steal information.

* Filter fraudulent calls and messages: Uses artificial intelligence to identify common scam patterns and warn the user before they interact.

* Protect private data: Strengthen security to prevent sensitive user information from being compromised.

Redesign and usability improvements that you will notice

Android 16 is not only more secure, but also more pleasant and efficient to use. Here are the main visual and functional improvements:

* Smart Notifications: Notifications from the same app are now automatically grouped together, reducing screen clutter. It also introduces "Live Updates," a feature that allows apps like Uber to display real-time information (such as the arrival of a car) directly in the notification, without having to open the app.

* Advanced Personalization: The dynamic theme system has been improved, allowing for greater customization of colors and icons to match your wallpaper.

* Multimedia improvements: Support for UltraHDR images and improved HEIC video encoding have been added, resulting in higher quality photos and videos.

* Enhanced Accessibility: Incorporates native support for hearing aids with LE Audio technology, enabling more precise volume control and improved audio quality during calls, especially in noisy environments.

"This update simplifies notification management, allowing faster access to important information and reducing visual and auditory clutter." – Official Google statement.

Official list of cell phones compatible with Android 16

For now, the update is available exclusively for Google's line of phones. The company plans to expand compatibility to other manufacturers such as Samsung and Xiaomi in the coming months.

The Pixel devices that can now download and install Android 16 are:

* Pixel 6, 6 Pro, and 6a

* Pixel 7, 7 Pro, and 7a

* Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet

* Pixel 8, 8 Pro, and 8a

* Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold and 9a

Attention, Beta Users! Important Warning

If you've been participating in the Android beta program, it's crucial to take precautions. Google has warned that users on Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 should leave the program before installing the stable version.

Transitioning from that specific beta to the final version will result in a "data wipe," meaning all data on the device will be erased. It is strongly recommended to perform a full backup of all information before proceeding.

How to install Android 16 on your Pixel

If you have a compatible device and are not on the aforementioned beta, the process is simple:

* Go to Settings.

* Select System.

* Click on Software Update.

* The system will search for the update. Click Download and Install.

Make sure your battery is charged and you're connected to Wi-Fi for faster and safer downloads.