Android 16 Might Be Released in Q2 2025 With 'Baklava' Codename: Reports

Google is reportedly gearing up to release Android 16 much earlier than usual in 2025. According to recent details found in Google’s internal documentation, the company could launch Android 16 in Q2 2025, breaking from its traditional September-October release window. This earlier rollout may allow Google to ship its next-generation smartphones with Android 16 pre-installed, a move that was not possible with the Pixel 9 series, which runs on Android 14.

Android 16 Release Timeline

References to the new OS were discovered in Google’s Android 15 Compatibility Definition Document (CDD), which includes a mention of "Android 25Q2," suggesting the potential launch timeframe in the second quarter of 2025. The codename for Android 16 has been revealed as "Baklava," keeping up with Google’s tradition of naming its Android versions after desserts.

Another clue comes from Google’s Android Open Source Project (AOSP), where an internal comment mentions “25Q2/Android W,” further strengthening the theory of an early Android 16 release. The early timeline might allow Google to better align its smartphone releases, possibly ensuring that its upcoming devices, like the Pixel 10, could arrive with Android 16 pre-installed.

Codename Reset for Android Versions

In addition to the early release speculations, it seems Google has also reset its alphabet-based codenaming system for Android versions. Previously, Android 15 was codenamed "Vanilla Ice Cream," but recent reports indicate that Google has shifted to naming it with an "A." Similarly, Android 16, originally expected to have a "W" codename, has now been referred to as "Baklava."

This change in the naming convention could indicate a fresh approach by Google as it plans its future Android updates. Despite the switch, some Google engineers continue to refer to Android 16 as "Android W," adding some mystery to the internal code.

Why the Early Release?

There could be several reasons for this shift. One possible explanation is to provide a smoother transition for Google's hardware releases. The Pixel 9 series shipped with Android 14, and Google may want to avoid repeating this situation by ensuring Android 16 is ready ahead of the company’s next smartphone launch. Another reason could be to accelerate the release cycle to compete better in the rapidly evolving smartphone market.

What to Expect from Android 16

While the specifics of Android 16’s features and improvements remain under wraps, the early signs point toward an overhaul that includes new APIs, enhanced performance, and greater integration of Google’s AI-powered tools. Given the timing, the upcoming OS could also be optimized for newer hardware advancements, possibly including enhanced support for foldable devices and new AI-based features.

Conclusion

With Android 16 seemingly set to launch in Q2 2025 under the codename "Baklava," Google could be making a significant change in how it approaches Android updates. The reset in the codename system, combined with an earlier release date, indicates that Google is moving toward a more streamlined and efficient update cycle, allowing its hardware to remain competitive and up to date with the latest software innovations. For Android users, this could mean getting their hands on new features and improvements much sooner than expected.

Stay tuned for more updates as Google finalizes its plans for Android 16, and keep an eye on future Pixel announcements to see how this early release might affect the smartphone landscape.