Android 16 Now Rolling Out to Pixel Devices First: Samsung Users Must Wait

Google has officially started rolling out Android 16, and—once again—Pixel phones are the first to receive the update. With Google confirming that Android 16 is now available for supported Pixel smartphones, other major Android brands, including Samsung, are left waiting. This move reinforces Google’s strategy to prioritize its own hardware, and it also raises pressure on Samsung to accelerate its rollout plans.

Key Highlights:

• Android 16 was first released for Pixel devices
• Advanced Protection Mode brings iPhone-level security to Android
• Samsung aims for an earlier-than-usual update—possibly July 2025
• New AI-based scam protection features included

Android 16 Officially Launches—Pixel Comes First

Google has announced that Android 16 is now rolling out to eligible Pixel smartphones, marking the earliest major Android release in years. Pixel users are the first to experience the latest features, including a powerful new security option—Advanced Protection Mode.

This early release puts Pixel several months ahead of other smartphone brands like Samsung, Xiaomi, and OnePlus. Google emphasizes that broader availability will come “later this year,” but no exact timelines have been shared.

What Is Advanced Protection Mode in Android 16?

One of the most talked-about additions in Android 16 is Advanced Protection Mode, a security-focused feature inspired by Apple’s iPhone protections. This mode includes:

• Restrictions on sideloading apps
• Enhanced phishing and malware detection
• Automatic blocking of scam calls and unsafe websites
• Real-time protection from sophisticated online threats

Google says this is the strongest mobile security layer ever built into Android, making devices more secure for both everyday users and public figures.

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Why Samsung Users Will Have to Wait

While Pixel phones enjoy immediate access, Samsung Galaxy owners—especially those using recent flagships like the Galaxy S24, S23, and S22 series—are still waiting for the update. According to insider sources at SammyFans, Samsung is targeting a summer 2025 timeline for the stable version of One UI 8 based on Android 16.

There’s hope this could arrive as early as July 2025, which would be months ahead of Samsung’s traditional rollout window. However, the company has yet to confirm an official release date.

Samsung Already Offers Built-In Security—but You Should Still Enable Advanced Protection

Even though Samsung devices already implement various security layers, including app restrictions and Knox protection, Advanced Protection Mode in Android 16 adds an extra layer of safety. It’s especially helpful in preventing accidental sideloading or falling victim to phishing and scam links.

Users are advised to turn on the feature with a single tap for maximum protection—even if you’re using a Galaxy device.

New Scam Detection and Unified Security in Android 16

Another major enhancement in Android 16 is the unification of all Google security features under one system. This allows users to get AI-powered protection against:

• Harmful apps
• Unsafe websites
• Scam messages and calls
• Real-time online attacks

These updates include scam detection features previewed earlier in 2025, now fully integrated into Android 16’s core functionality.

What About One UI 8 and Samsung’s Android 16 Beta?

Following past delays with One UI 7, Samsung appears to be speeding things up this time. Reports suggest that the beta version of One UI 8 is already in progress, with a public beta likely to arrive soon for Galaxy S24 and newer foldables.

The stable release of One UI 8 is expected to come out before the Galaxy S25 series launches, possibly by August or early September 2025.

Final Thoughts: Pixel Leads, Samsung Catches Up

With Android 16 now live for Pixel phones, Google continues to push boundaries in smartphone software and mobile security. While Samsung users will eventually get access, Pixel owners are currently enjoying the most advanced Android experience available.

If security and early updates are top priorities for you, the Pixel remains the best Android phone to own in 2025. But for Samsung fans, the wait may not be too long, with One UI 8 expected ahead of schedule.