Android users should mark in their calendars that Android 16 is going to arrive much sooner than the previous releases, with the Over-the-Air (OTA) update set to roll out on June 3. This is a pretty big change from past timelines, making the eagerly awaited update available to users earlier than expected.

As Android 16 is still in developer preview, it's already bringing some noteworthy changes, including an upgraded notification system.

New Compact Notification Shelf

Android 16 Dropping Compact Notifications & Multitasking Improvements Soon: Here's

One of the most noticeable changes coming with Android 16 is the redesigned notification shelf. This new feature, discovered by Mishaal Rahman of Android Authority, will give users a cleaner, more organized experience on their devices. The compact notification shelf will allow users to choose between a streamlined, minimalist layout or the traditional full notification list.

For those who prefer a more compact look, a small circle will appear below the clock on the lock screen. This circle represents the app from which the notification originates, making the lock screen visually tidier, especially for those who receive a high volume of notifications.

Not all notifications will be collapsible into this compact form. It's speculated that Android's new Rich Ongoing Notifications will remain fully visible, providing a more detailed view for certain ongoing processes like music players or navigation apps.

This option promises to give users more control over how their notifications are displayed, adding a level of customization not previously available.

What's New in Android 16 Beta?

Currently, Android 16 is still in its developer preview phase, primarily aimed at developers testing app compatibility and preparing for new features. However, regular users won't have to wait much longer for their chance to try the update.

According to recent insights, the Android 16 beta could be released as early as this week, allowing users to preview the upcoming features and tweaks.

Android Headlines reports that the beta version of Android 16 offers a sneak peek into the full release but is still not the final version of the update. It's important to note that some features in the beta may not make it to the official release, as Google has historically made last-minute adjustments before rolling out major updates to all users.

For non-developers, the beta is an exciting opportunity to explore Android 16's enhancements and give feedback. This includes testing new functionalities like the compact notification shelf, as well as other key improvements aimed at enhancing the Android experience.

Android 16 Features You Can Expect

In addition to the compact notification shelf, Android 16 promises several other improvements that will enhance device functionality and user experience.

One of the best upgrades is split-screen multitasking, which is expected to be significantly improved in this version. Multitaskers will benefit from a more fluid experience when using multiple apps simultaneously, making it easier to juggle tasks and enhance productivity.

Google is also rumored to be enhancing other aspects of the operating system, including battery management, security features, and user interface tweaks. These changes aim to improve overall system performance, reduce energy consumption, and provide a smoother, more intuitive experience for Android users.

When Will Android 16 Be Available?

The official release of Android 16 is expected to happen soon after the beta testing phase, with the OTA update slated for June 3, 2025. This will give users across the globe access to the new features, including the compact notification shelf, enhanced multitasking, and other system optimizations.

Previously, Mobile & Apps reported that thinner volume sliders were expected to arrive on Android 16.