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The upcoming version of Google’s smartphone operating system, known as Android 16, is currently under development. As we approach its expected launch this summer, a recent report indicates that this update may introduce new features aimed at improving how users manage external displays. Users might gain the ability to rearrange external screens and seamlessly toggle between mirroring and extending the display. This information was provided by Android Authority.
In a report, journalist Mishaal Rahman noted that Google is actively testing these enhanced external display management capabilities in Android 16, potentially bringing the functionality more in line with desktop operating systems. The findings suggest that Google plans to implement mouse cursor transitions, allowing users to move the cursor while interacting across different displays.
Additionally, there may be a new switch for easily changing between mirroring the built-in screen and extending it. This update is designed to streamline usability by removing the need to access the developer settings on the phone and reconnect for display mode adjustments. To explore these features, the publication connected a Google Pixel 8 Pro to a NexDock XL and examined the External Display options within Android settings. According to the report, Google may also be looking into options for controlling the refresh rate of external displays, as well as resizing windows to fit screen edges and independently adjusting the size of text and icons on the external display.
While these features aren’t yet available, the publication successfully enabled them in the release of the Android 16 Beta 2.1 update, which occurred last month. This update also included important fixes for various performance-related issues, such as connectivity problems and system stability. As for the stable version of Android 16, industry speculation suggests that it will be made available for compatible Google Pixel devices by June 2025, according to company representatives.
