Google announced that Android Studio will enter a new update cycle from now on, launching a stable version of the update once a month, with an update frequency doubling compared to the past, aiming to provide developers with new features and key fixes faster.
According to Google, developers will welcome a major version of the latest IntelliJ platform every few months (e.g., Android Studio Narwhal based on IntelliJ 2025.1). During this time, they also release monthly feature drops with important bug fixes and new features until the next major release.
In fact, the developers have previously experienced this rhythm with Android Studio Narwhal. Google said that in the recent Feature Drop, new features like Agent Mode enabled direct access from Canary to the stable channel for the first time, significantly reducing developer early adopter time.
Why the monthly update?
Google said that developer feedback said that the process of having to wait until the next major version release to get critical fixes or feature upgrades is too frustrating. With monthly releases, Google can deliver these updates faster.
It should also be noted that the Android emulator and Android Gradle plugin will still be updated every two months, and will not affect developers to download the latest stable version of the IDE every month.
Maintain quality and stability
Google emphasizes that the increase in update frequency does not come at the expense of quality. Its long-term investment in test infrastructure is key to supporting a faster release pace. This effort first began with Project Marble. After continuous optimization, Google has the confidence to double the frequency of releases, so it will move further towards monthly updates.
In addition, Google is also adjusting the early experience channel. In the past, previews were usually available through beta, but now with better detection and fixing mechanisms, some releases can go directly from Canary to Release Candidate (RC) to near-stable quality.
How developers participate
Google encourages developers to update to the latest stable version monthly for the latest features and improvements. IT House noticed that Google officially proposed two ways to participate:
- Download Narwhal 3 Feature Drop: Currently available on the Canary channel for early access to new features; If a more stable version is required, you can wait for the RC phase.
- Report Issues: If you encounter errors, submitting feedback helps Google locate and fix them faster.
Google said it is excited about Android Studio entering a new pace of updates and believes it will help developers “build better apps and get them done faster.”