![Android 16 Live Updates' Usage Explained and Demonstrates Map Integration [Video]](/en/content/images/size/w1280/format/webp/20250707191359_android-16-live-updates.jpeg)
Android 16 Live Updates Functionality Demonstrated alongside Maps Integration [Video]
Android users are in for a treat as the latest operating system, Android 16, prepares to introduce the Live Updates feature. This innovative functionality aims to keep users updated with timely information without the need to open the app[1].
The Live Updates feature is currently in a limited and partially functional form within the Android 16 QPR1 Beta releases, as of mid-2025[2]. It allows apps to generate Live Updates via progress-style notifications, similar to standard notifications, but without the special expanded views that fully distinguish Live Updates[1][2].
However, Google is planning a full system-level integration and polished support for Live Updates later in 2025, likely through upcoming quarterly updates after the QPR1 Beta phase[1]. This will enable Live Updates to provide more comprehensive and user-friendly experiences.
As for the timeline, Live Updates in Android 16 QPR1 Beta are already functional in limited form, full system-level integration is expected later in 2025, and widespread app adoption is anticipated following the stable Android 16 updates, likely in late 2025[1][5].
Google advises developers not to abuse Live Updates and suggests they should not be used for ads, promotions, chat messages, alerts, upcoming calendar events, or quick access to app features[1]. Instead, Live Updates are designed for activities that are ongoing, user-initiated, and time-sensitive, such as active navigation, phone calls, rideshare tracking, and food delivery tracking[1].
Google Maps is an excellent example of Live Updates in action, showing directions in the status chip and providing trip progress and further directions in the Live Update notification[1]. Other examples include wayfinding in museums or stadiums and monitoring the progress of a food delivery or package[2].
Google has demonstrated Live Updates on multiple occasions, including at I/O, where it previewed what Live Updates might look like with Maps, Waymo, and Uber Eats[1]. The company has also published a Live Updates documentation page in late June[1].
Live Updates will be visible on the lockscreen as an outline, offering a quick glance at important updates without the need to unlock the device[1]. However, it's important to note that Live Updates are not appropriate for tracking a package as the user doesn't need to constantly monitor this[1].
If a user swipes away a Live Update, the app should be designed not to resurface it[1]. Additionally, "status chips" can include an icon, up to 7 characters of text, or a specific time[1].
The Android ecosystem continues to evolve, and Live Updates represent another step forward in enhancing user experiences. With widespread app adoption expected in late 2025, users can look forward to a more connected and informed mobile experience with Live Updates on Android 16.
References: [1] 9to5Google (2025). Android 16: Everything you need to know about Live Updates. [online] Available at: https://9to5google.com/guides/android-16-live-updates/ [2] XDA Developers (2025). Android 16 QPR1 Beta: Live Updates, new status bar chip for phone calls, and more. [online] Available at: https://www.xda-developers.com/android-16-qpr1-beta-live-updates-new-status-bar-chip-for-phone-calls/ [3] Android Police (2025). Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2 brings new status bar chip for phone calls. [online] Available at: https://www.androidpolice.com/2025/07/01/android-16-qpr1-beta-2-brings-new-status-bar-chip-for-phone-calls/ [4] The Verge (2025). Google's Live Updates are coming to Android 16. [online] Available at: https://www.theverge.com/2025/06/10/22451248/google-live-updates-android-16-ios-live-activities [5] Android Central (2025). Android 16: Everything you need to know. [online] Available at: https://www.androidcentral.com/android-16-everything-you-need-know
The Live Updates feature, currently in a limited form in the Android 16 QPR1 Beta releases, will provide more comprehensive and user-friendly experiences once Google integrates it system-wide and offers polished support, likely in upcoming quarterly updates later in 2025. Starting from late 2025, with widespread app adoption, users can anticipate enjoying a more connected and informed mobile experience with Live Updates on Android 16, enhancing user experiences within the Android ecosystem.
