Google Pushes Adaptive Android Apps to 500 Million Devices with Android 16

On May 20, 2025, at Google I/O, Google emphasized adaptive app development to support over 500 million Android devices, including foldables, tablets, Chromebooks, and cars . Android 16 introduces desktop windowing and connected display features, enhancing app functionality across various screen sizes.

Jetpack Compose’s Adaptive Layouts library now supports pane expansion and new strategies like “Levitate” and “Reflow,” enabling dynamic UI adjustments. Jetpack Navigation 3 (Alpha) simplifies multi-pane navigation, while Compose 1.9 enhances input support with right-click context menus and improved trackpad functionality.

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AndroidX.window 1.5 adds “large” and “extra-large” width size classes, aiding in responsive design decisions. Compose previews and Android Studio’s resizable emulator assist in testing adaptive layouts across devices.

Starting with Android 16, apps targeting SDK 36 must support resizable layouts on screens at least 600dp wide, promoting adaptability . The Google Play Store will highlight apps optimized for various form factors, increasing visibility.