Google Releases Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2 Update for Pixel Users
Google has rolled out the Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2 update for its Pixel device lineup. This update comes after the initial release last month, just in time for the holiday season. Compared to monthly patches, Quarterly Platform Releases (QPRs) bring significant enhancements. Google states that QPRs are stable and suitable for general use. The stable version of Android 16 QPR3 is expected to launch in March 2026.
Key Improvements and Fixes
The Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2 update addresses various stability, performance, and usability issues. Some notable fixes include:
- Resolution of critical system crashes and device freezes.
- Correction of battery management problems, preventing excessive drain and ensuring adherence to charging limits.
- Enhancements to connectivity, which include solutions for slow Wi-Fi speeds and missed calls.
- Improvements to UI functionality in the notification shade and app drawer for smoother navigation.
Specific Fixes Addressed
Several specific issues have been rectified in this update:
- The app drawer became unresponsive while scrolling, requiring adjustments to UI rendering.
- Android Auto recorded excessive screen time, negatively affecting battery life.
- Graphical glitches in full-screen and PiP modes during notification shade interactions have been improved.
- Nights spent with the device resulted in excessive battery drain, addressed by optimizing background power consumption.
- An issue where devices charged past the set limit has been corrected.
- A bug that caused slow internet speeds on Wi-Fi connections was fixed.
- Accessing radio information settings sometimes triggered a crash, which has now been resolved.
- Audio output switching to speakerphone during calls lacked responsiveness; this has been improved.
- Screen flickering related to the Always-On Display was fixed by updating the system webview.
- Compatibility issues with certain Microsoft applications managed by Intune have been resolved.
- Inconsistencies in wireless charging and slow wired charging were improved via power management system updates.
Device Compatibility
Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2 includes the January 2026 security patch and is available for the following devices:
- Pixel 6
- Pixel 6 Pro
- Pixel 6a
- Pixel 7
- Pixel 7 Pro
- Pixel 7a
- Pixel Tablet
- Pixel Fold
- Pixel 8
- Pixel 8 Pro
- Pixel 8a
- Pixel 9 series (Pro, Pro XL, Pro Fold, and 9a)
- Pixel 10 series (Pro, Pro XL, and Pro Fold)
However, OTA images for the Pixel 10 series are not available; users must utilize on-device OTA. Most users will upgrade through the Android Beta Program, but flashing or sideloading is also possible.
Feedback Mechanism
Users can provide feedback using the Android Beta Feedback app, accessible via the app drawer or Quick Settings. Additionally, the Android Beta community is available on Reddit for discussion and support.
