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.
Google Meet gets a fresh new look with Material 3 design

Google Meet is getting a big update to its look, thanks to the new Material 3 design. This change brings a cleaner and more modern style to the video calling app, making it easier and more enjoyable to use.
With Material 3, Google Meet now has rounder buttons, softer colors, and better spacing between elements. The main controls, like the microphone, camera, and end call buttons, are now larger and easier to tap. The icons and text are also clearer, which helps users find what they need quickly during a call.
Another improvement is the new “expressive” color system. This feature lets the app’s colors match your device’s wallpaper or theme, giving each user a unique and personalized experience. The changes also make Google Meet more accessible, as the new design is easier to read and use for everyone, including people with vision difficulties.
These updates are rolling out to both web and mobile versions of Google Meet. Google says the new look will help people feel more comfortable and focused during their meetings. Overall, the Material 3 update makes Google Meet not only look better but also work better for all its users.
Android
Easy ways to change Android Auto’s look with light and dark themes

Android Auto is a helpful tool that lets you use your phone’s apps safely while driving. It connects your phone to your car’s screen, making it easier to use maps, music, and calls. One of the features many people like is the ability to change how Android Auto looks by switching between light and dark themes.
How to switch between light and dark themes
Android Auto offers two main themes: light and dark. The light theme uses brighter colors, which can make the screen easier to see during the day. The dark theme uses darker colors, which can be more comfortable for your eyes at night or in low light.
To change the theme, follow these steps:
- Open the Android Auto app on your phone.
- Go to the settings menu.
- Find the “Theme” option.
- Choose between “Light,” “Dark,” or “Set by car” (this lets your car decide the theme based on the time of day or your car’s settings).
Why themes matter
Using the right theme can make driving safer and more comfortable. The light theme is good for bright days, while the dark theme helps reduce glare at night. Having these options means you can pick what works best for you, making Android Auto easier to use in any condition.
In short, Android Auto’s theme options are simple to use and help you drive more safely by making the screen easy to see, no matter the time of day.
Google Drive and Files by Google get fresh updates for easier use

Google is rolling out some helpful updates to two of its popular apps: Google Drive and Files by Google. These changes are designed to make managing your files and watching videos much smoother.
First, Google Drive is getting a new video player. Now, when you upload a video to Drive and open it, you’ll notice a fresh look that matches Google’s latest design style. The controls, like play and pause, are easier to use and look cleaner. This update makes it simpler to watch videos directly in Drive without needing to download them first.
Meanwhile, the Files by Google app is also getting a makeover. The app is adopting Google’s Material 3 design, which means it looks brighter and more modern. The buttons and menus are easier to see and use, making it simpler to find, move, and organize your files. There are also new color options and improved icons, so everything feels more user-friendly.
Both updates show Google’s commitment to making its apps more helpful and enjoyable to use. Whether you’re watching videos in Drive or sorting files on your phone, these changes aim to save you time and make things less complicated. If you use these apps, keep an eye out for these new features—they should arrive soon!
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