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Android 16 software update: Features and frequently asked questions

This guide answers common questions about the Android 16 update on your Fairphone. Learn how to update your software, explore new features, and resolve common software questions.

Supported devices

This update applies to The Fairphone (Gen. 6).

What to do before you update

We strongly recommend you create a backup of your personal data before installing Android 16 on your Fairphone.

Creating a backup protects your photos, contacts, and app data during software updates. Learn how to back up or restore your data.

How to install Android 16

The Android 16 update rolls out gradually to device owners. If you have not received a notification yet, you can manually check for the update:

  1. Go to Settings > System > System update.
  2. Tap Check for update.
  3. If no update appears, check again in a few days. For more detailed instructions on software updates, see how to check and update your software version.

What's new in Android 16

Updating your software keeps the Fairphone safe with security improvements and new features. Android 16 remains completely bloatware-free, keeping your phone clean without unwanted pre-installed apps.

Everyday use and notifications

  • Force group notifications: Notifications from the same app automatically bundle together. Tap once to expand or collapse them.
  • Notification cooldown: When multiple alerts arrive in quick succession, the phone gradually lowers the alert volume to prevent loud repeated sounds.
  • Power button shortcut for Wallet: Double-press the power button to open Google Wallet instead of the camera.
  • Measurement system customization: Select your preferred units of measurement directly within system settings.
  • Unicode 16.0 emojis: Express yourself with seven new Unicode emojis.

Accessibility

  • Outline text for maximum contrast: Adds a contrasting outline around characters to improve reading legibility.

Security and protection

  • Anti-scam safeguards during phone calls: Prevents app sideloading and blocks sensitive permissions while a call is active to protect against scam calls.
Why are some Google features missing?+

Google develops many optional features for Android. We prioritize software capabilities that bring clear value to daily use and match our performance standards. Some features—such as Live Updates or Secure Lock—depend on broader ecosystem support or hardware capabilities that are not active on the phone.

How can I fix the navigation bar overlapping my keyboard?+

A layout glitch in Android 16 may cause the gesture navigation bar to overlap with your keyboard. You can fix this issue by restarting your phone:

  1. Press the Power button to turn on the screen.
  2. Press the Power and Volume up buttons at the same time.
  3. Tap Restart.

Once the phone reboots, the keyboard and gesture navigation bar will display in their correct positions.

Why is my phone running slowly or losing battery after updating?+

Your phone may run slower or consume more battery during the first 24 to 48 hours after installing Android 16. During this period, the system works in the background to optimize data and apps for the new software version.

Background optimization is temporary and resolves automatically after 48 hours.

If battery consumption or speed does not return to normal after 48 hours, submit a request through our Repair Request Portal or contact Customer Support.

What to do if your phone will not update+

If your phone encounters an error during installation, find out what to do when your Fairphone will not update to the latest software version.

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