Google drops a bombshell with its latest beta release, but is it a smooth ride for all users? The tech giant has unveiled the final beta for Android 16 QPR2, but there's a catch.
The Android 16 QPR2 Beta 3 is now available for eligible Pixel devices, specifically the Pixel 6 series and newer models, including the highly anticipated Pixel 10. This update promises to address a range of issues reported by users, but there's a twist. Users who opt for the beta won't be able to revert to the stable channel without a data wipe until the final update arrives in early December. And that's where things get interesting...
The beta release aims to squash bugs and glitches before the official rollout in December. Here's a breakdown of the issues addressed:
- Google Play System Updates: Some users faced issues with installing these updates, but no more! (Issues #420748298 and #438257102)
- Home Screen Shortcuts: No more blank gray circles, as the update fixes this visual glitch. (Issue #440302367)
- Wallet Icon: Say goodbye to incorrect coloring on the lock screen. (Issues #419061603 and #434489536)
- Battery Charging: Adaptive charging now works as intended, reaching a full 100%. (Issue #445583926)
- Swipe-Up Gesture: This essential navigation feature is now more reliable. (Issues #436632152 and #445023211)
- Theme Selection: Your chosen theme should now apply smoothly. (Issue #440830741)
- Camera Artifacts: Ultra-wide and telephoto lens images will no longer display rainbow artifacts. (Issues #422058430 and #443250512)
- Battery Drain: Excessive CPU usage by the launcher, especially on foldable devices, has been addressed. (Issue #441741448)
- Bluetooth Audio Routing: Calls should now route Bluetooth audio correctly. (Issues #448580013 and #448580779)
- Wi-Fi Access: Users in New Zealand can now access all 6GHz Wi-Fi networks. (Issue #444050891)
- Terminal App Stability: Changing the UI font size won't crash the app anymore. (Issue #412082408)
- Special Characters: You can now type special characters in the GUI terminal without a hitch. (Issue #444130818)
- UI Responsiveness: Swiping lock screen widgets and the notification shade simultaneously won't cause lag or buggy animations. (Issue #446133358)
- Screen Unresponsiveness: No more frozen screens during device unlocking.
- Display Freezes and Noise: A smoother visual experience is on the way.
- Device Crashes: Unexpected crashes should be a thing of the past.
But here's the catch: if you're eager to try the beta, you'll need to enroll in the Android Beta program and wait for the OTA update. And remember, once you're in, there's no going back to the stable channel without a data wipe until December.
So, are you willing to take the plunge and help Google refine Android 16 QPR2? Or will you wait for the stable release? Let us know in the comments, and share your thoughts on this beta testing adventure!
