The Android 16 Beta Program is making waves today with the release of QPR2 Beta 2 for Google devices, including the highly anticipated Pixel 10 series. This update brings a host of new features and improvements, marking an exciting phase in the development of Android 16.
The Quarterly Platform Releases (QPRs) are known for delivering substantial updates compared to the more routine monthly bug fixes. Android 16 QPR2 is shaping up to be a major release, as historical trends show that QPRs tend to be relatively stable and are often launched as betas instead of developer previews. Google has officially stated that these updates are “suitable for general use,” with a full rollout of Android 16 QPR2 expected in December.
One of the standout features of this release is the introduction of a platform stability milestone for QPR2, which is particularly beneficial for developers. The QPR2 Beta 2 has already reached this milestone, indicating that final app-facing behaviors are now in place. However, it’s important to note that “Android 16 QPR2 is still in active development,” meaning that users may encounter occasional bugs or unexpected behavior in the system or apps.
This latest release comes packed with exciting new features designed to enhance user experience and improve security. Here are some of the highlights:
Testing Developer Verification: A new requirement that connects real-world entities—both individuals and organizations—with their Android applications. This feature aims to fortify the platform against malicious actors. SMS OTP Protection: To combat OTP hijacking, the delivery of messages containing an SMS retriever hash will be delayed for most apps by three hours. However, apps can still utilize the SMS retriever API to access messages in a timely manner. Custom App Icon Shapes: Users can now choose from a variety of icon shapes that will apply to all app icons and folder previews, allowing for a more personalized home screen. More Efficient Garbage Collection: The Android Runtime (ART) introduces a Generational Concurrent Mark-Compact (CMC) Garbage Collector, which focuses on newly allocated objects that are more likely to be garbage. This improvement leads to reduced CPU usage, a smoother user experience, and enhanced battery efficiency. Automatic Step Tracking in Health Connect: The Health Connect app now automatically tracks steps utilizing the device’s sensors, enhancing fitness monitoring. Additionally, the ExerciseSegment and ExerciseSession data types have been updated for better tracking capabilities.For those participating in the Android 16 QPR2 Beta 2, the Android Beta Feedback app is readily available on Pixel devices. Users can access it from the app drawer or via Quick Settings to report any issues directly to Google’s issue tracker. Additionally, the Android Beta community can be found on Reddit, where users can share experiences and tips.
Android 16 QPR2 Beta 2 (BP41.250822.010), complete with the September 2025 security patch, is available for a variety of Pixel devices. This includes the Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a, Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Pixel 9a, Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro XL, as well as the Android Emulator.
