Android 16 Public Beta 2 Released With Improved Settings and Additional Photography Features

Google has released the second beta of Android 16, just three weeks after the first. The update focuses on improving camera capabilities, expanded control over biometric data, multimedia features, and background process optimization. Key innovations include hybrid auto-exposure modes, support for the Ultra HDR format, new permission settings for apps that work with health data, adaptive video output settings for TVs, and an improved mechanism for managing system resources.

Image source: Google

The annual Google I/O developer conference was announced on Wednesday, and on Thursday Google released the second beta version of Android 16, which demonstrates that it is in active testing. One of the main innovations of Android 16 Beta 2 is improved image processing algorithms. Hybrid autoexposure modes have been added, allowing the user to manually adjust the light sensitivity (ISO) or shutter speed, while the system automatically adjusts other parameters for optimal exposure. Such technologies are widely used in digital cameras, but for the first time they are implemented in a mobile operating system at the system level.

In addition, Android 16 introduces the ability to fine-tune color temperature, tints, and shadows, giving users greater control over the color rendition of photos. A new framework has been implemented that allows third-party apps to request the camera to create moving photos (Motion Photo). Support for high dynamic range (HDR) has been improved: Ultra HDR format has been added, increasing the detail and contrast of images, which improves the quality of photos in difficult lighting conditions.

The new Android 16 version significantly expands the user’s ability to manage health data. Now, users can individually configure permissions for apps that request access to skin temperature and heart rate, as well as prohibit the collection of this data in the background. This mechanism is implemented in the form of a new system framework that increases privacy and gives users more precise control over their personal data. Google continues to actively develop health monitoring features in Android, and further improvements in this area can be expected in future updates.

The second beta version of Android 16 also improves the system’s multimedia capabilities, especially in the area of ​​video playback and audio. The new system framework automatically adapts audio and video output parameters when transmitting content to TVs, providing optimal settings depending on the device’s characteristics. This mechanism is useful not only for streaming video services, but also for gaming applications, as it allows you to automatically adjust the image and sound quality for a more comfortable gaming experience.

The app’s regional settings section now has a new option: users can now choose between English and metric measurement systems. Previously, this section only allowed users to set temperature units and the first day of the week. Adding a measurement system option improves the usability of Android, especially for people who travel frequently or work with data that requires different units of measurement.

Android 16 Beta 2 includes a number of technical improvements aimed at improving the stability, performance, and adaptability of the system. Key changes include:

• Updated font support;

• New support for live wallpapers created based on user data;

• Added system control over tasks requested by applications;

• More detailed information about the extent to which an application can load the device’s processor;

• Compatibility mode for applications developed using legacy memory management methods.

Android 16 debuted in November 2024 as a Developer Preview. Then, in December 2024, a second preview version was released, and the first beta version was presented three weeks ago. Now the system has entered the active testing phase, and the second beta version is available to Android Beta Program participants. Owners of Google Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro and newer smartphones, up to the current Pixel 9 series, can take part in testing. However, users should be aware that the test version may contain errors and cause unstable operation of the mobile device.