Android 16 Hits Pixel First—Samsung Faces Pressure

Android 16 Rolls Out to Pixel Devices First—Samsung Users Left Waiting

Technology

Google has officially launched Android 16, and once again, Pixel devices are at the front of the line. The update, which Google says is “rolling out first to supported Pixel devices,” includes powerful new security features and signals an aggressive push to narrow the gap with Apple’s iOS.

Advanced Protection Mode: Android’s Answer to iOS Security

One of the standout features of Android 16 is Advanced Protection Mode. This new option offers Google’s strongest mobile security yet, helping users guard against:

  • Online attacks
  • Malicious apps
  • Scam calls
  • Unsafe websites

This mirrors Apple’s security model more closely by restricting sideloading and adding multi-layered protections—all of which can be activated with just one tap.

Google noted this is the earliest Android release in recent years, emphasizing its focus on faster, more secure updates for Pixel users.

Samsung’s Response and the Race to Update

Samsung, Android’s dominant player, is now racing to meet expectations. While there’s no confirmed date, sources suggest that Samsung is aiming to release One UI 8 (Android 16) as early as July 2025, months ahead of its usual fall update schedule.

Despite Samsung’s existing restrictions against sideloading and malicious activity, Advanced Protection Mode still offers an extra layer of safety that’s worth enabling—even for Galaxy users.

More Than Just Security

Alongside security improvements, Android 16 introduces a unified protection interface, giving users seamless control over scam detection and privacy settings. These include features previewed earlier this year to combat rising threats from phishing, spam, and identity theft.

What Samsung Users Can Expect

Samsung’s rollout will likely start with:

  • Galaxy S24 and S25 series
  • Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip foldables
  • Galaxy S22 and later flagship models

After the One UI 7 rollout saw delays, the company is under pressure to deliver faster and smoother updates this time around.