Android 16 Beta 3 brings simple notification summaries, a fun easter egg update, and more

Google’s Android 16 Beta 3 is here, and it’s quietly working on some handy new features. One of the coolest additions is “notification summaries,” which aim to tidy up your alerts without copying Apple’s bumpy version of the same idea.

Smarter Notifications Made Easy

In this beta, Google is testing a way to shorten conversation notifications from apps. Code snippets show you’ll be able to switch summaries on or off for each app. For example, you can let the system group and quiet down similar alerts or keep some apps’ messages as they are. It’s all about giving you a calmer phone experience. Unlike Apple’s attempt, which sometimes messes up or repeats useless info, Google’s version sticks to chats only—like texts or messaging apps. A new settings page might pop up soon to control this, though it’s not fully live yet.

A Playful Easter Egg Gets an Upgrade

Android 16 reuses the space-themed Easter egg from the last two versions, where you steer a spaceship around. This time, Beta 3 adds an “autopilot” twist. Turn it on, and the ship flies solo, hunting for planets while you watch its journey via a notification tied to Android’s new Live Updates feature. It’s a small, fun touch—though after three years of the same game, a little more sparkle would be nice. Live Updates aren’t finished yet, so expect some tweaks before the final release.

A Fresh Way to Close Apps

Another small but useful change: a “Close” button for apps. In the recent apps menu, tap an app’s icon, and you’ll see this new option alongside “Split screen.” It’s a quick way to shut down an app without swiping, though it’s not as strong as a full “force stop.” It’s simple but feels like a bonus in a beta without huge updates.

Battery Health for Pixels

Pixel fans get a treat too—a “Battery health” page under Settings > Battery. It shows how your battery’s doing with a green check if all’s good, plus tips like avoiding heat or using Adaptive Charging to keep it strong. So far, it’s spotted on Pixel 9 and 8 Pro devices. Android 16 Beta 3 keeps things low-key but promising. Stay tuned for more as it rolls out!