Asus has officially commenced the Android 16 rollout, making the stable update available to its Zenfone 12 Ultra and ROG Phone 9 devices. This significant software deployment began on November 14, 2025, offering early adopters access to Google's latest operating system advancements, alongside Asus's specific optimizations. The release marks a crucial step for Asus in providing timely software support and introducing enhanced features to its flagship smartphone lineup.

The Android 16 stable release for Asus devices officially started on November 12, 2025. The initial wave of updates is targeted at the Zenfone 12 Ultra and the ROG Phone 9. This update is not part of a beta program but is a full, stable release. Both the Zenfone 12 Ultra and ROG Phone 9 are currently available for pre-order in select markets, with wider availability anticipated by late November 2025. The Zenfone 12 Ultra starts at $999 for its base model (12GB/256GB), while the ROG Phone 9's base model (16GB/512GB) is priced from $1,199.

Android 16 Core Enhancements and Device-Specific Features

Android 16 introduces a suite of core enhancements designed to improve the user experience across various form factors. Key among these are improved app adaptability for foldables and tablets, facilitated by new APIs that enhance orientation and resizing on larger screens. Users can expect enhanced privacy controls, more granular permission management, and system-wide performance optimizations. These optimizations include faster app launch times and a reduction in battery drain. Notification management has also been refined, offering smarter contextual suggestions.

Asus has integrated these core Android 16 features with its unique device capabilities. The Zenfone 12 Ultra, known for its advanced camera system, features a triple-lens setup including a 200MP main sensor. It also boasts a 6.8-inch AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 chipset, and a robust 5,500mAh battery supporting 80W fast charging.

For gaming enthusiasts, the ROG Phone 9 offers a 6.9-inch AMOLED display with a 165Hz refresh rate, powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 4+ chipset. It can be configured with up to 24GB RAM and 1TB storage, and includes a substantial 6,000mAh battery with 100W charging. The ROG Phone 9 also benefits from exclusive gaming optimizations and an enhanced cooling system, ensuring sustained high performance.

Initial Reception and Market Response

Asus issued a press release on November 14, 2025, stating, “We are excited to deliver Android 16 to our flagship users, starting with Zenfone 12 Ultra and ROG Phone 9. This update brings the best of Google’s innovation and our own optimizations for camera, gaming, and battery life.”

Early reviewers, including Gizmochina, have praised the update’s smoothness, highlighting significant improvements in multitasking and gaming performance. The camera enhancements, particularly on the Zenfone 12 Ultra, have been noted as “industry-leading for mobile photography.” User feedback on social media and forums has been largely positive, with reports of faster system performance, better battery life, and smoother gaming. However, some users have reported minor compatibility issues with third-party applications, which Asus is reportedly addressing through incremental updates.

The market has reacted positively to the announcement, with Asus shares experiencing a modest uptick. This reflects investor confidence in the brand's commitment to delivering timely software support and fostering flagship innovation. An Android Update Tracker confirms the rollout and indicates that additional Asus devices are expected to receive Android 16 in the coming weeks. These include the Zenfone 12, ROG Phone 9 Ultimate, and Zenfone 12 Flip. While some UK users have noted app compatibility problems, no major system stability issues have been reported for Asus devices as of the rollout date.

Android 16: A Comparison with Previous Updates

To provide context on the significance of this release, a comparison with its predecessor, Android 15, reveals key advancements: