Android 16 Beta 1: Now with predictive back for button users
Android 16 Beta 1 has a cool new feature hidden inside. If you use the three-button navigation, you’re in for a treat. Now, when you hold down the back button, you get a sneak peek of what’s coming next. This preview shows up in the Wallpapers & Style app too.
Here’s how it works: if you press and hold the back button, the app you’re in will shrink just a bit, letting you see a glimpse of the screen behind it. For the Wallpapers & Style app, you can swipe from the right side of your screen and hold; you’ll see a smooth animation before it switches back to the last screen you were on.
A New Chance for Three-Button Navigation
Google has been pushing for swipe gestures since Android 10, but they haven’t forgotten about those who like the old-school three-button setup. Although they introduced predictive back navigation in Android 13, it was only for a select few devices and apps. Now, with Android 16 Beta 1, Google seems to be giving this feature some love, aiming to make it a regular part of the Android navigation experience. This update could make life easier for those who prefer buttons, offering them more control and a nicer look. Your feedback will help shape how this feature evolves as it’s still being tested.
What Else is New in Android 16 Beta 1?
Android 16 is set to come out in the second quarter of this year. Here’s what else you can expect from Beta 1:
- Better App Adjustments: Apps will no longer be able to lock their screen orientation or size on bigger screens, making them more adaptable for devices like tablets.
- Live Updates: Get real-time notifications for things like your Uber ride or food delivery.
- APV Video Support: Improved handling of high-quality video formats for professionals.
- App Resizing: Apps can now be resized to fit larger screens more effectively.
Google aims to enhance the Android experience with these updates. While we haven’t seen anything groundbreaking yet, these small improvements like the predictive back gesture add up to make Android 16 more user-friendly.