Key Takeaways
1. Beta Phase Launch: Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 is now available for testing, allowing users to preview new features before the public release in March 2026.
2. Key Features: Major updates include a driver upgrade for the Pixel 10’s PowerVR GPU, new folder animations, Quick Settings tweaks, and a three-button navigation layout.
3. Flashlight and Widget Adjustments: Users can now adjust flashlight brightness, remove the At a Glance widget, and enjoy enhancements to the Always On Display (AOD).
4. Eligible Devices: Pixel 6 and newer models can participate in the Android 16 beta by enrolling in the Android Beta program or manually installing the update.
5. Installation Note: Reverting from the beta version to the stable channel requires a factory reset of the device.
Hot on the heels of the Android 16 QPR2 stable update that was released earlier this month in the December Pixel Drop, Google is now starting the beta phase for Android 16 QPR3, which is the last quarterly platform update in the Android 16 series.
Try Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1
If you’re a Pixel 6 owner or have a newer model, you can now test Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 and preview the new features and changes before its public launch in March 2026. This is a great chance to experience the latest improvements ahead of time!
New Features and Improvements
Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 comes with several fresh features and enhancements for Pixel devices. One of the biggest highlights is the long-awaited driver update for the Pixel 10’s PowerVR GPU, which upgrades the driver from version 1.602.400 to 1.634.2906. This should help fix some issues with compatibility and performance that many users faced in games like Genshin Impact.
Moreover, the update introduces new animations for opening and closing folders, tweaks to the Edit tiles screen in Quick Settings, and a three-button navigation layout similar to Samsung’s. Additionally, users can now adjust flashlight brightness, remove the At a Glance widget from the home screen, and enjoy further improvements to the Always On Display (AOD).
Eligible Devices and Installation
The following Pixel devices are now able to try out the Android 16 beta:
The simplest way to access Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 is to enroll your device in the Android Beta program. After signing up, you should receive an OTA update pretty soon.
Alternatively, you can manually install the update by using flashable OTA images provided by Google. If you choose this method, be sure to carefully follow Google’s official installation guidelines. Keep in mind that once you install Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1, reverting to the stable channel will require a factory reset of your Pixel.
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