Android 16 — the following working system (OS) from Google — was launched in developer preview on Wednesday. A dive into the replace has now revealed that it’d convey a brand new function which mechanically hides delicate notifications, akin to OTPs and two-factor authentication codes, from the smartphone’s residence display, in keeping with a report. With this step, it might reportedly change into harder for malicious apps to extract stated data, probably enhancing privateness.
Hidden Notifications in Android 16
In a report, Android Authority’s Mishaal Rahman detailed the function found within the Android 16 Developer Preview 1. As per the publication, Android System Intelligence will have the ability to detect when notifications, that are thought-about “delicate”, seem on the lock display and mechanically redact them with out consumer intervention.
The delicate notifications will nonetheless be hidden even when the delicate notifications choice is enabled within the gadget settings, as per the report. If disabled, solely the app identify, which has despatched the notification, will seem on the lock display. A separate setting for lock display notifications can be reportedly added within the Android 16 Developer Preview 1. Right here, customers can management which apps and gadgets learn notifications and the extent to which they’re hidden.
The report suggests an analogous choice was beforehand found in Android 15. It’s stated to leverage the Android System Intelligence which processes data and checks for any delicate content material like two-factor authentication codes, earlier than it’s handed on to the Notification Listener API. Solely apps which have been signed with the system certificates or carry out choose roles can be granted entry to learn delicate content material in notifications.
Android 16 Launch Date
In line with a earlier report, Android 16 can be moved to the Android Open Supply Mission (AOSP) on June 3. Additional, will probably be made obtainable as an over-the-air (OTA) replace beginning with the Google Pixel gadgets on the identical day. Google has additionally confirmed that it’s going to have a significant Android launch in Q2 2025, adopted by a minor launch within the fourth quarter.