Android 16 QPR2 Beta 1 rolls out for Pixel

Google begins Android 16 QPR2 Beta 1 rollout for Pixel ahead of a December stable release and the Material 3 Expressive redesign.

Android 16 QPR2 Beta 1 rolling out for Pixel

Google has started Android 16 QPR2 Beta 1 for Pixel devices, offering a preview of major changes before the next stable update. The build BP41.250725.006 includes the August 2025 security patch and marks a continuation of Google’s quarterly platform releases, which often bring bigger changes than monthly patches. This beta signals an important step toward a broader redesign that Google has described as part of the upcoming stable Android 16.

For most users, the beta route runs through the Android Beta Program, with many devices automatically upgrading to QPR1 Beta 2 for now. If you prefer the stable QPR1 first, you can opt out via google.com/android/beta and skip the downgrade OTA notification that will wipe data; you should keep opting out until the next cycle. The Android Beta Feedback app remains available to report issues, either from the app drawer or Quick Settings, and bugs land in the Google issue tracker while discussions continue on Reddit.

The rollout reflects a strategy that stacks major updates on a broad device base to surface issues earlier. By tying beta access to a wide range of Pixel devices, Google aims to catch edge cases and speed up polishing before a December launch. The mention of Material 3 Expressive suggests a fresh design direction that could affect app compatibility and user expectations across the ecosystem. The risk is balancing speed with stability, as a beta path inevitably tests real world usage in ways internal testing cannot.

For everyday users, the beta provides a glimpse without commitment, but it comes with caveats such as potential downgrades and data loss if not handled carefully. For developers and testers, the beta is a signal to verify compatibility and performance changes now, so the final release feels reliable. Success will hinge on clear feedback loops and a smooth transition from beta to stable, not on hype or press coverage.

Highlights

Beta work is a test that pays off when users shape the final product.