Which phones will get Android 16 and when in 2026

One of the questions I get asked most is “will my phone get Android 16?” The answer depends on the brand, model, and when you bought it. I’ve compiled all available information about which phones will receive Android 16 and the expected dates for each manufacturer.

Table of contents

Google Pixel: first in line

Google always updates its own phones first. If you have a Pixel, you’re in luck.

Pixel phones compatible with Android 16

What about Pixel 5 and older?

No. Pixel 5, 4a, 4, and older models have reached the end of their update cycle. Google guarantees 7 years of updates only for Pixel 6 and newer.

Note: Pixels are the only phones with stock Android 16 (no modifications). If you want the cleanest experience, they’re the best option.

Samsung: the biggest Android manufacturer

Samsung is the biggest Android phone seller and their update policy has improved enormously in recent years.

Galaxy S (flagship)

Galaxy Z (foldables)

Galaxy A (mid-range)

Samsung updates its mid-range phones later. Confirmed models:

• Galaxy A55, A54, A53 (Q3-Q4 2026)
• Galaxy A35, A34 (Q4 2026)
• Galaxy A25, A24 (Q4 2026 - Q1 2027)

Older Galaxy A and budget models

Galaxy A15, A14, A05, and below will likely NOT receive Android 16. Their update cycle is shorter.

Key info: Samsung promises 7 years of updates for Galaxy S24 and newer. Older models get 4 years of OS updates and 5 years of security.

Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO

Xiaomi has a more aggressive update policy in recent years.

Xiaomi (flagship)

Redmi Note

POCO

OnePlus, Nothing, and other brands

OnePlus

Nothing

Motorola

Sony

Sony Xperia 1 V, 1 VI, 5 V, and 5 VI will receive Android 16, likely between Q3 and Q4 2026.

How to check if your phone will get Android 16

If you’re not sure, follow these steps:

1. Go to Settings > About phone and note your exact model
2. Search Google for “[your model] Android 16 update”
3. Check your manufacturer’s official page
4. Go to Settings > System > System update and check manually

Tips to receive the update sooner

• Register your device in the manufacturer’s support app
• Join beta programs if offered (Samsung Members, Xiaomi Mi Pilot)
• Keep your phone updated with the latest Android 15 version
• Don’t use custom ROMs if you want official OTA updates

Warning: Dates are estimates based on each manufacturer’s history. Delays are normal and may vary by region.

Frequently asked questions

Will all Android phones get Android 16?

No. Only phones within their support cycle will receive the update. Models older than 3-4 years are generally excluded, with some exceptions for flagships.

How long does my phone receive updates?

• Google Pixel: 7 years (Pixel 6+)
• Samsung: 7 years (S24+), 4 years (older)
• Xiaomi: 3-4 years for flagships
• OnePlus: 4 years for flagships
• Motorola: 3 years for flagships, 1-2 for budget

Will my phone stop working without Android 16?

No. Your phone will keep working perfectly fine with Android 15 or whatever version it has. You’ll just stop getting new features and, eventually, security patches.

Can I manually install Android 16 if it doesn’t arrive?

It’s possible to flash the ROM manually, but it’s an advanced process that can void your warranty and there’s a risk of bricking the phone if done wrong. I don’t recommend it for users without technical experience.

Conclusion

Android 16 availability depends a lot on your brand and model. Google and Samsung have the best update policies. If your phone won’t get Android 16, know that it will keep working normally, but you’ll start missing new features and security patches in a few months. It’s a good time to evaluate whether your next phone is worth it based on long-term support.