Motorola has begun testing the beta version of Android 16 on eight additional devices after some delays. This move marks a significant step in updating its older smartphone lineup to Google’s latest operating system.
The beta rollout includes key Motorola models such as the Razr 2023 editions and the Edge 60 Neo series. Users across various regions now have the opportunity to participate in the testing program and experience Android 16’s new features ahead of the official release.
Eligible Devices and Regions
The list of supported devices eligible for the Android 16 beta testing is as follows:
- Motorola Razr 2023 (United States)
- Motorola Razr+ 2023 (United States)
- Motorola Razr 40 (India, Brazil, Latin America)
- Motorola Razr 40 Ultra (United States, India, Brazil, Latin America)
- Motorola Edge 60 Neo (Europe, Middle East, Africa – EMEA, Brazil, Latin America)
- Motorola Edge 50 Neo (EMEA, India, Brazil, Latin America)
- Motorola Moto G85 5G (India, Brazil)
- Motorola ThinkPhone 25 (EMEA)
Users who own any of the devices listed above and reside in the designated regions can register for the beta program. Registration requires filling out a form and agreeing to Motorola’s terms via the company’s official support forums tailored to each device and region.
Delays and Motorola’s Track Record
Motorola’s update schedule has historically been slower than many competitors. While the Android 16 update first launched for newer Motorola devices like the Edge 60 Pro, Edge 60 Fusion, and Edge 50 Pro in October 2025, broader availability for older models faced significant delays. The current beta phase for older devices is arriving months later than rivals such as Samsung, Sony, and OnePlus, who had earlier rollouts for their Android 16 versions.
Typically, major smartphone brands prioritize updates on new and flagship devices before gradually moving to older or mid-range models. In contrast, Apple releases iOS updates simultaneously for all supported iPhones, setting a high industry standard for timely software upgrades.
Why Timely Updates Matter for Motorola
As one of the top three smartphone brands in the United States in recent years, Motorola has an opportunity to expand its market share further. However, to compete robustly with leaders like Samsung, the company must improve its software update strategy. Offering longer support periods and prompt Android version upgrades could enhance user loyalty and attract new customers.
Consistent and timely software updates not only improve device security and performance but also ensure users have access to the latest features and improved user experiences. This can differentiate Motorola in a competitive marketplace where software support increasingly influences purchasing decisions.
How to Join the Android 16 Beta Program
Owners of eligible Motorola devices interested in early access to Android 16 features can visit their device’s support page to sign up. The enrollment process involves agreeing to Motorola’s beta testing policies and acknowledging the risks associated with testing unfinished software versions.
Android 16 introduces enhancements such as improved privacy controls, better app compatibility, and refined interface features, which could significantly elevate the user experience on Motorola’s devices once stable versions are released.
Motorola’s current Android 16 beta rollout represents a crucial phase for updating its legacy devices. While the pace of deployment remains behind some competitors, this initiative reflects Motorola’s ongoing efforts to deliver new software experiences to a broader customer base. Continued attention to update timeliness and extended support may position Motorola favorably in the evolving smartphone market.
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