Google has started rolling out Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 to Pixel users. In this article, we’ll not only tell you which phones are eligible for the update, but what exactly it brings. New info keeps on coming, as new tidbits are being revealed as we speak.
The Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 update is here for Pixel phones
This update follows the stable Android 16 QPR2 launch, which happened earlier this month. The Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 should be quite stable, but not completely stable. So keep in mind that bugs still may appear. This update is expected to reach stable status in March 2026.
Google also notes that users might encounter some data corruption issues when exiting the bta program after taking the QPR3 Beta 1. If you plan on leaving the beta program, it is advised you do that before isntalling the QPR Beta 1.
The Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 is rolling out alongside the December 2025 security patch. It is coming to a ton of Pixel devices, along with the Android Emulator.
A ton of devices are eligible for the update
Here are the Pixel devices that are eligible: 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, and Pixel 9a, Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
Most of you will probably opt to install this update via the Android Beta Program . You can, however, always flash or sideload the update, if you know what you’re doing.
Google did not detail all the changes that this update brings, so new information is popping up as people are spotting them. Below, we’ll talk about what we know thus far. Images and video are courtesy of 9to5Google.
New folder animation
Google has changed up the folder animation in this update. A video available below gives you a look at the new animation.
‘Minimal’ themed icons
Google’s themed icons are now called ‘Minimal’, as you can see in the image below. This is a very small change, but one worth noting.
Removable ‘At a Glance’ widget
Thanks to this update, you can remove the ‘At a Glance’ widget from the home screen on Pixel devices. Many people have been waiting for this change, and it’s finally here.
Flaslight strength option
You can now adjust the flashlight strength option on your Pixel phone. This is also a change that some people have been requesting. See how the setting looks below.
‘Edit tiles’ change
Google also made a small change when you’re editing tiles, it’s a small alignment change, that’s all. There’s nothing new in terms of the general functionality of editing tiles.
Reversible navigation button layout
This update also gives those of you who use navigation buttons to reverse their order, as many other OEMs do. This change was also requested for some people who are used to a different layout, and it’s finally here.
At a Glance lockscreen/AOD tweak
Google also made a small tweak for the At a Glance widget on your lockscreen and AOD. The day/date and weather info is now flipped, as you can see below.
Google Pixel 10 GPU driver update
The Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 update also delivers a GPU driver update for the Google Pixel 10. The Tensor G5 was criticized for its GPU performance since launch, and users are hoping this update will improve things. It remains to be seen.
