Android 16 Beta 3 Launches with Crucial UpgradesAuto Draft

Android 16 Beta 3 has reached platform stability, marking a major milestone as the API surface is now locked and app-facing behaviors are finalized. This means developers can finally push Android 16–targeted apps to the Play Store, and early adopters can start exploring the next chapter in Android’s evolution. The update brings along exciting new security and accessibility features designed to enhance the overall user experience.

In this release, one of the standout upgrades is the support for broadcast audio. Pixel 9 devices running Android 16 Beta now support Auracast broadcast audio with compatible LE Audio hearing aids, allowing users to receive direct audio streams in busy public spaces like airports and concerts. This move not only improves audio accessibility but also reinforces Android’s commitment to a more inclusive platform.

Another key feature introduced is outline text for maximum text contrast. This enhancement replaces traditional high-contrast text with a defined outline, greatly improving legibility for users with low vision. Developers now have access to new AccessibilityManager APIs, making it easier to detect when this mode is enabled so that custom UI elements can adjust accordingly and provide a better reading experience.

Android 16 Beta 3 also opens the door for testing Local Network Protection—a feature set to change how apps access devices on local networks. Currently offered as an opt-in, this update allows developers to simulate the new restrictions using a simple adb command. This is crucial for apps that rely on local device connectivity, such as those for media casting, IoT interactions, or device discovery. With this change, any app that accesses the local network without explicit permission may encounter socket errors, prompting developers to update their apps for a smoother transition in future releases.

Alongside these innovations, several under-the-hood changes have been rolled out to boost security and performance. JobScheduler quotas are now enforced more strictly, and enhancements in broadcast handling, intent security, and Bluetooth bond loss management ensure that apps not only run efficiently but also safeguard user data better. Developers are advised to test all app flows thoroughly and update any SDKs or libraries to avoid compatibility issues when targeting Android 16.

Industry experts see these updates as a positive step toward a more secure, accessible, and robust Android ecosystem. With the Android beta program continually evolving through user feedback, the changes in Beta 3 are expected to set the stage for an even more refined experience in the final release. Google has also outlined a roadmap for 2025, with a major API release in Q2 and a subsequent update in Q4 focused on feature enhancements and bug fixes.

As Android 16 Beta 3 rolls out, developers and tech enthusiasts are encouraged to dive in, test their apps, and share feedback. This collaborative effort is key to ensuring that Android remains at the forefront of mobile innovation, offering users a seamless and enhanced digital experience.