Android 16 Beta 4 Update: Full List of Features, Bug Fixes, and Eligible Devices

Google’s Android 16 journey is nearing its much-anticipated public release, and the release of Android 16 Beta 4 is the clearest sign yet. Rolling out to Pixel phones, tablets, and select partner brand devices, this update is more than just another beta. It’s a significant milestone in the Android development cycle, showcasing Google’s final refinements before the stable version sees the light of day.

This release also marks Android 16 reaching the second platform stability stage, a technical milestone that indicates fewer changes to APIs and behaviors — a good sign for developers, and even better news for users. Whether you’re using a Pixel 6 or just picked up a shiny new Pixel 9a, the Android 16 Beta 4 update offers a meaningful peek at what’s to come.

Android 16 Beta 4 Update: Everything You Need to Know

The Android 16 Beta 4 update isn’t just another run-of-the-mill patch — it brings a host of bug fixes, subtle design improvements, and enhanced system stability. It’s available for a wide range of Pixel models, from the Pixel 6 series up to the latest Pixel 9a, including the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet. But what’s truly impressive is the expansion to third-party OEMs like OnePlus, iQOO, OPPO, Vivo, Realme, Xiaomi, Honor, Lenovo, and Sharp.

Let’s break down everything new and noteworthy in this latest beta release:

Eligible Pixel Devices

• Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a
• Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a
• Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a
• Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Pixel 9a
• Pixel Fold
• Pixel Tablet

UI and Feature Enhancements

Android 16 Beta 4 includes visual refinements and usability upgrades, all designed with user experience in mind:

• Dynamic AOD Colors: Always-on Display clocks now adopt dynamic colors based on your theme.
• Improved Recents Menu: Long-pressing apps in the Recents view now shows Screenshot and Select options.
• Darker Media Player: Media artwork on the lock screen now appears less bright, aligning better with dark themes.
• Gesture Navigation Demo: A new demo makes it easier for users to adapt to gesture navigation, available in Settings > Display & Touch.
• ‘Apps List’ Shortcut: You can now access the apps list faster by long-pressing the Pixel Launcher home screen.

These minor tweaks reflect Google’s ongoing commitment to refining Android’s UI to be more intuitive and visually appealing without overhauling what users already know and love.

Battery Health Confusion

One surprise that came with Android 16 Beta 4 is the removal of the Battery Health feature from some devices. Previously introduced in Android 15, this useful insight tool is now missing from Settings on some Pixel phones. Reports suggest it may reappear after rebooting or force stopping the Settings app, though there’s no official word yet from Google.

Security and Bug Fixes

With build number BP22.250325.007, this release patches critical vulnerabilities and enhances overall security with the April 2025 security patch. Notably, it addresses two zero-day flaws and multiple CVEs.

Here’s a quick look at major fixes:

• Resolved radar map disappearance in the Pixel Weather app.
• Improved haptic feedback responsiveness and performance.
• Fixed high power consumption bug affecting certain devices.
• Corrected issue triggering restarts when answering calls in specific situations.
• Fixed crash issue when screen magnification was enabled.
• Restored functionality to the screen saver feature.
• Resolved restart issue caused by ranging API usage.

Google has also fixed a number of smaller, developer-reported issues that were affecting the launcher, app stability, and more — a good indication that we’re getting close to the final polish.

More Under the Hood: Developer & User Experience

Beyond the user-visible changes, Android 16 Beta 4 is a critical checkpoint for developers. With APIs now mostly locked in, app developers can begin testing full compatibility with confidence. Google’s gradual reduction in changes at this stage ensures smoother app behavior and fewer surprises at the time of the stable release.

This also makes Beta 4 an excellent candidate for more adventurous users to try out. While it’s still a beta, stability is considerably better than previous builds. However, the usual beta caution applies — bugs, incomplete features, and system hiccups can still happen.

One UI 8.0 Preview?

Although the Android 16 Beta 4 is mainly for Pixel and Google partners, its features offer a glimpse of what Samsung users might see in One UI 8.0. The dark media player artwork, gesture introduction screens, and dynamic UI tweaks are likely inspirations for future custom skins by manufacturers like Samsung.

Given that Samsung’s upcoming foldables — the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 — are expected around mid-2025, Android 16 Beta 4 provides an early peek into what their OS foundations might include.

What’s Next for Android 16?

With the Android 16 Beta 4 update hitting the final refinement phase, Google is widely expected to unveil the stable Android 16 at the upcoming Google I/O 2025 event in May. With most of the core issues now resolved and UI tweaks in place, the focus will shift entirely to platform stability and optimization.

The Pixel 10 series might very well launch with the final Android 16 build pre-installed, marking the culmination of months of public testing and feedback-driven improvements.

Stay connected to iNews ZoomBangla for more Android 16 stories, beta updates, and smartphone coverage as we approach the big release!

FAQs About Android 16 Beta 4 Update

Which Pixel devices support Android 16 Beta 4?

The update is supported on Pixel 6 series and newer, including Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet.

What are the key new features in Android 16 Beta 4?

Dynamic color AOD clocks, improved app long-press menu, darker media player artwork, and gesture navigation demo are some highlights.

Is the Battery Health feature removed permanently?

Battery Health is missing for some users, but might reappear after restarting or force-stopping the Settings app. It’s not confirmed to be removed permanently.

When will the stable Android 16 version be released?

Google is expected to release the stable version in May or June 2025, likely during Google I/O.

Can non-Pixel users try Android 16 Beta 4?

Yes, phones from brands like OnePlus, Xiaomi, OPPO, Vivo, and more are eligible under Google’s partner program.

Is Android 16 Beta 4 stable enough for daily use?

It’s more stable than previous betas but still carries risks. Users should expect occasional bugs or unfinished features.