Google Android 16 beta 3 arrives today to these phones, with these new features

Google has officially released Android 16 Beta 3 starting today, marking the Android OS’s transition into its “Platform Stability” phase. This milestone signals that the upcoming Android 16 update is getting closer to its final release. With Platform Stability, Google has stopped introducing new features and is now focusing on refining and optimizing the software. The goal is to ensure Android 16 is polished and ready for a broader rollout.

As of today, Android 16 Beta 3 is rolling out to Pixel devices, allowing developers to finalize their apps’ compatibility with the updated platform’s behaviors and APIs.

Android 16 Beta 3 still brings a handful of noteworthy updates, particularly in the areas of security and accessibility. One of the most prominent additions is support for Auracast Bluetooth technology. This feature allows compatible LE Audio hearing aids and earbuds to receive direct audio streams from public venues like airports, concert halls, and classrooms, enhancing accessibility for users with hearing impairments.
Another key change in Beta 3 is the replacement of high contrast text with outline text. This new approach improves legibility by drawing a larger, more distinct contrasting area around the text, making it easier to read.
Android 16 Beta 3 also introduces new AccessibilityManager APIs. These APIs let apps check or register a listener to determine whether the new text outline mode is enabled, offering developers better integration with accessibility features.
Additionally, app developers can begin testing Local Network Protection (LNP), a feature aimed at giving users greater control over which apps can access devices on their local network. While LNP is set to launch in a future major Android release, its early presence in the beta highlights Google’s commitment to strengthening user privacy and security.