Google’s Android 16 brings exciting updates to keep your phone safer and make calls smarter, especially for Pixel users. These changes focus on stronger security through a feature called Advanced Protection and improved call handling with AI-powered tools. Let’s dive into what’s new and how it makes your phone experience better.

Stronger Security with Advanced Protection

Android 16 introduces a handy security feature called Advanced Protection, designed to shield your phone from threats with one simple toggle. Found in the Settings app, this mode activates multiple safeguards at once, like blocking unsafe apps, stopping risky connections, and protecting against spam calls and messages.

A new addition in Android 16 lets apps check if Advanced Protection is on, so they can turn on their own security measures. Right now, Google apps like Chrome, Play Store, Messages, and Phone support this, but third-party apps can join in if they use the right tools. This means your apps can work together to keep your data safer, making it tougher for hackers or scammers to cause trouble.

Smarter Calls with AI Features

Google is also upgrading how Pixel phones handle calls, and you don’t need the latest Pixel 10 to enjoy these perks. The “Take a Message” feature lets an AI assistant answer your calls and create messages from voicemails, all without needing an internet connection.

Another cool tool, Call Notes, now uses AI to figure out next steps after a call, like reminding you to follow up or schedule something. This was thought to be exclusive to the Pixel 10 but is now available on the Pixel 9 series for US English users. These features make managing calls easier, saving you time and hassle.

Why These Updates Matter

These Android 16 upgrades show Google’s focus on making phones more secure and user-friendly. Advanced Protection simplifies keeping your device safe, while the new call features help Pixel users stay organized and avoid spam.

Whether you’re worried about security or just want smarter call handling, Android 16 has something for you. To try these features, update your Pixel 6 or newer to Android 16, or wait for Samsung’s One UI 8 to bring Advanced Protection to Galaxy phones.

Google is rolling out exciting updates to several of its apps and services, making them easier to use and more visually appealing for Android users. These changes include a new beta program for YouTube on Android TV and Google TV, a redesigned Gmail, updated Android system services, a simplified backup settings page, and a refreshed Google Messages interface.

Here’s a closer look at what’s new.YouTube is now offering a beta program for its Android TV and Google TV apps in select countries. This program lets users try out new features before they’re available to everyone. By joining the beta, you can test early versions of the app and share feedback to help improve the big-screen YouTube experience.

It’s a great way to get a sneak peek at upcoming changes and help shape the app’s future.Gmail on Android is getting a modern makeover with Google’s Material 3 Expressive design. The update, which started testing in June, is now widely available. The email list is now displayed in a single rounded container, giving it a cleaner and more unified look.

When you open an email, the design continues with a clear app bar and subject line. Buttons for replying and forwarding are now bolder, using vibrant colors to stand out, though the compose screen and homescreen widget are still awaiting updates.Android’s system services are also getting a boost.

A new “System Services” page, introduced in July, is now rolling out to manage background apps that keep your device running smoothly. This update makes it easier to understand and control these essential services.

The Android backup settings page has been simplified with the Material 3 Expressive design. Found under Settings > System > Backup on Pixel devices, the new layout fits everything on one page, making it easier to manage your backups without scrolling through multiple screens.

Finally, Google Messages is getting a fresh chat interface. The conversation screen now features a rounded container for messages, with a cleaner app bar and a solid background color instead of the old bubbly wallpaper.

The media picker and emoji menu have also been updated for a smoother experience. These updates show Google’s commitment to improving its apps with user-friendly designs and new features, making your Android experience more enjoyable.

Google is rolling out exciting changes to make your Android experience smoother and more personalized. From a refreshed look for Android Auto to smarter music apps and a more tailored Google Discover feed, plus a handy new feature for Gemini, here’s what’s new.

A Fresh Look for Android Auto

Android Auto is getting a visual upgrade, according to a recent APK teardown. The update swaps out the bold, vibrant colors for softer, less intense shades. This change aims to make the interface easier on the eyes, especially during long drives.

The new design keeps things clean and simple, reducing distractions while still looking modern and user-friendly. It’s all about creating a calmer, safer driving experience.

Smarter Music Apps for Android Auto

Music apps like Spotify and YouTube Music are also getting a makeover for Android Auto. A new templated media app system ensures a consistent look across different music and podcast apps.

This means you’ll get the same familiar layout, making it easier to switch between apps without relearning controls. The update simplifies navigation, letting you focus on the road while enjoying your favorite tunes or podcasts.

Google Discover Feed Goes Multilingual

The Google Discover feed is becoming more inclusive with support for multiple languages. Now, users can see news and articles in various languages based on their preferences or location.

This update makes the feed more relevant for people who speak multiple languages or live in diverse regions, ensuring you get content that matches your interests, no matter the language.

Gemini’s “My Stuff” Memory Feature

Google’s Gemini app is introducing a “My Stuff” section, similar to ChatGPT’s Library. This feature lets Gemini remember your past conversations and preferences, making interactions more personalized.

Whether it’s recalling a recipe you asked about or continuing a previous chat, “My Stuff” keeps things organized and tailored to you, saving time and enhancing your experience.

These updates show Google’s focus on making its apps and services more user-friendly, safe, and personalized. From driving to browsing news to chatting with AI, Google is working to improve how you interact with your devices every day.