Android Sixteen is by far the largest, and physically most intimidating, of the trio of Androids. He is sequentially the first, created before Androids Seventeen and Eighteen, and apparently of a design that didn't incorporate any human biological material. Sixteen is revived from stasis by Seventeen and Eighteen, and comes as a shock to Mirai Trunks, who'd never seen this android in his own timeframe.

Despite his huge stature, deep voice, and, as it turns out, very impressive strength, Sixteen is an extremely gentle giant. The wildlife of Earth recognize this, and birds and squirrels flock to him. Early in the Android saga, Sixteen refuses to face any opponent but Goku, his preprogrammed target. As a result, he refrains from joining the fight against the other warriors, usually gazing off into the distance in what appeared to be silent reflection.

When Cell made his presence known, Sixteen revealed his true strength... even beyond that of Seventeen. He fought Cell until he could no longer stand, willingly staking his might against a monster more than eager to destroy all life on Earth. Bulma acknowledged his strength and desire to protect Earth, and together with her father she repaired Sixteen of his injuries in preparation for the Cell Games. By the time Goku recovered from his heart ailment, and joined the fight, Sixteen no longer viewed him as his target. His love for the gift of life led him to stand beside Goku and his team in defense of Earth.