Android 16 Beta 4: the watch in the state bar changes face on the Google Pixel

On April 17, 2025, Google distributed the Android 16 beta 4 to all users registered in the Beta program in possession of a compatible pixel device. The update does not upset the experience of use, but introduces some interesting graphic finishes, including an evident retouching to the clock in the status bar.

A little big detail: the new watch font

Those who have a careful eye (and maybe a pixel 9 in their hands) will immediately notice that the numbers of the clock at the top left have slightly changed. Google has updated the font, making in particular the “1” and “2” figures, while the “0” has become a little narrower. The spacing between the numbers was also retouched: for example, the gap between 1 and 2 is now wider.

Everything seems a little more “airy” and modern, in line with a general aesthetic renewal process that Google has been carrying out for some time. On the other hand, no change for the right side of the bar, where the font for the percentage of the battery and the other icons remains unchanged.

Those who have already updated probably noticed the new look of the watch, a change that, as often happens, affects at the beginning but then becomes an integral part of the interface. It is not yet clear whether this change will also arrive in the stable version of Android 16scheduled for June, but everything suggests that Google want to continue on this path.

A stable and mature update

Beyond the small graphic novelties, Android 16 Beta 4 A solid release is being proved. Those who installed it on their main device, as in the case of the 9A pixel, has not encountered significant problems. The experience is fluid and, for those who are curious to try the latest features (such as the methods introduced with Android 15 QPR2 or the removal of the Mappamondo icon on the keyboard), this is definitely a good time to enter the beta program.

The wait now moves on Android 16 Beta 4.1expected for May, which will bring with it the monthly security update and some corrections of bugs, including those relating to quick connections in the lock screen on some devices.

In short, Android 16 continues to grow step by step, and even if they are apparently minor details, such as the new font for the clock, the final result will be an increasingly well -kept and coherent system.