6 Features Android 16 Needs to Revamp the OS

Android 16 is on the horizon, bringing exciting new features like screen-off fingerprint unlock for ultrasonic sensors and app bubbles for better multitasking. However, Google still has time to introduce some much-needed upgrades that could make this the best Android update yet.

In recent years, Android updates have felt somewhat underwhelming, while Apple’s iOS and Samsung’s One UI have made significant strides. It’s time for Google to step up and address long-standing issues that have frustrated users for years. Here are six key features that could make Android 16 a game-changer.

1. Opt-Out Instead of Opt-In for Advanced Protection Program (APP)

Android 16 is set to be the most secure version yet, thanks to an upgrade to the Advanced Protection Program (APP). This feature allows apps—especially banking and sensitive apps—to enforce additional authentication steps, making it harder for malicious users to gain access.

However, APP is currently opt-in, meaning many users might never activate it. While additional security steps can be annoying, making APP opt-out instead would ensure more people benefit from these protections without needing to manually enable them.

2. Automatic Call Screening for All Android Phones

One of the biggest frustrations with Android’s call management is the lack of universal automatic call screening. In the U.S., Pixel phones have this feature built-in, providing instant caller identification before you even pick up.

However, in the UK, call screening is manual on Pixels and completely unavailable on many other Android devices. Expanding this feature across all Android phones would be a major win, reducing spam calls and improving user experience.

3. Better RCS and SMS Integration

In some regions, WhatsApp dominates communication, while in others, SMS and RCS are still widely used. Google needs to enhance the Messages app with better RCS support, end-to-end encryption for all conversations, and seamless cross-device syncing.

A unified messaging experience—where RCS, SMS, and even other messaging platforms could integrate better—would make Android a stronger competitor against Apple’s iMessage.

4. A Smarter and More Customizable Lock Screen

Android’s lock screen experience feels outdated compared to iOS’s widgets, customization options, and interactive notifications.

Android 16 should introduce:

• Live Activity-style widgets for real-time updates (sports scores, deliveries, etc.).
• More clock and wallpaper customization options.
• Better music controls with waveform animations.

5. Universal App Archiving for Storage Management

Google Play already offers app archiving, which allows users to free up storage by offloading rarely used apps while keeping their data intact. However, this feature isn’t fully integrated into Android.

Android 16 should introduce automatic app archiving for unused apps, similar to iOS, and offer storage recommendations based on usage patterns.

6. Improved Split-Screen and Multitasking

Multitasking on Android is decent but still falls short of Samsung’s One UI. Android 16 should introduce:

• Resizable app windows similar to Samsung’s One UI.
• Easier split-screen gestures (like dragging an app from the taskbar).
• Floating window support for all apps, not just select ones.

Final Thoughts

Android 16 has the potential to be a major leap forward, but only if Google prioritizes features that users truly need. By enhancing security, communication, call management, customization, storage, and multitasking, Google could deliver an update that finally makes Android feel fresh again.