Google has given its users an unexpected present with the latest update to Android 16, which comes in a more frequent release schedule than previously expected. Gone are the days of waiting months or longer for updates that were already available on the latest Pixel devices; instead, third-party Android phones will now receive updates every six weeks, twice as often as before.
The new QPR2 release is a minor update that brings improvements to notifications, icons, and calling screens, among other features. While it may not be as exciting as some of the major Android updates in the past, this change signals Google's long-awaited plans to release more frequent OS updates, which will likely bring faster innovation to apps and devices.
This shift is a response to user frustration with Google's previous yearly update schedule, which left even relatively new third-party Android phones waiting months or longer for updates. By moving to an earlier, more frequent release schedule, Google hopes to drive faster innovation in the app and device ecosystem.
The updated release timeline will now include two biannual SDK releases per year, alongside major releases that have been moved forward, and the usual quarterly Android feature updates. This change means that third-party phone makers will have more time to prepare their latest devices for launch with the latest version of Android, which could lead to a wider adoption of new features across different Android devices.
In short, Google's decision to adopt a more frequent release schedule is likely to bring benefits to users and developers alike. By providing regular updates, Google can ensure that its Pixel lineup stays ahead of the curve, while also giving other Android devices a chance to catch up.
The new QPR2 release is a minor update that brings improvements to notifications, icons, and calling screens, among other features. While it may not be as exciting as some of the major Android updates in the past, this change signals Google's long-awaited plans to release more frequent OS updates, which will likely bring faster innovation to apps and devices.
This shift is a response to user frustration with Google's previous yearly update schedule, which left even relatively new third-party Android phones waiting months or longer for updates. By moving to an earlier, more frequent release schedule, Google hopes to drive faster innovation in the app and device ecosystem.
The updated release timeline will now include two biannual SDK releases per year, alongside major releases that have been moved forward, and the usual quarterly Android feature updates. This change means that third-party phone makers will have more time to prepare their latest devices for launch with the latest version of Android, which could lead to a wider adoption of new features across different Android devices.
In short, Google's decision to adopt a more frequent release schedule is likely to bring benefits to users and developers alike. By providing regular updates, Google can ensure that its Pixel lineup stays ahead of the curve, while also giving other Android devices a chance to catch up.
! Finally, we're getting some consistency with those OS updates 
. No more waiting months for new features and bug fixes - it's all about six-weekly updates now 
. I know some might say it's a big change, but trust me, it's about time 
. Less frustration means less complaining from users like me 
, and more innovation in the app world 
. Plus, those smaller SDK releases will give devs something to sink their teeth into too 
. I'm stoked to see Pixel devices leading the way again, but also excited for other Android phones to get a boost 
. This is gonna be an interesting ride! 
. And can you believe that all those third-party phones will be getting updates at the same time? That's a game-changer for everyone who's sick of waiting for their phone to get the latest features 
.
. It's gonna be so cool to see new features pop up on my phone every few months 
. And I guess this means that even older phones will start getting some love again 
. Bring it on, Android 16!
It's about time Google stepped up their game. The future is bright for Android users and devs alike 
. The idea of getting new features every six weeks is insane! 
. On a more serious note, I'm excited to see how this will impact app development and innovation on Android. It's about time we saw some progress from Google 
.