Google has released Android 16 QPR2 Beta 1, its latest Quarterly Platform Release for Pixel owners, and it brings a plethora of new features and enhances the stability of the platform. While this version currently rests in the beta phase, it brings small but notable improvements that will enhance daily use and give users more control over how their device looks and behaves.
Google’s Android 16 QPR2 Beta 1 update introduces Lock Screen widgets, themed icons, and dark mode expansion for Pixel devices
If you are a developer or someone who would like to try out the new features ahead of their official release, Android 16 QPR2 Beta 1 can be downloaded right now through the stock Settings app on your compatible Pixel devices. One of the most standout features in QPR2 Beta 1 is the expanded dark theme, which no longer relies only on apps that support dark mode. The update can now force a darker interface even if third-party apps do not support dark mode. This will create a more consistent experience for users.
The same feature is also expanded to apps and their icons, as previously, some apps did not support themed icons, which was personally a downer for me, as apps did not look the same on the Home Screen. Now, everything is consistent and in line with the company’s design language. Android 16 QPR2 Beta 1 also brings enhanced parental controls with the integration of the new Google Family Link directly in the Settings app, which is password-protected and can filter content, block certain apps, and much more.
Android 16 QPR2 Beta 1 also brings widgets on the Lock Screen, which is something that even Apple is not doing in iOS 26. There are a handful of widgets currently available, and third-party developers will have to update their apps to bring their share to the platform. You can test these features right now on all compatible Pixel devices. If you are not sure if your Google Pixel device is compatible with the build or not, you can check out our dedicated list.
Installing Android 16 QPR2 Beta 1 is quite simple, especially for Pixel users. Anyone who is enrolled in Google’s Android Beta Program should receive the update over the air automatically. It can be checked manually through the Settings app by navigating to System, and then selecting Software updates. If you are not part of the program, you can easily sign up with your Google Account on the Android Beta for Pixel website. We will be covering more details on the update and the features it will bring to the table, so be sure to stick around for more.
About the author: Ali Salman is a technology reporter for Wccftech mobile section with a specialized focus on Apple and the intellectual property that drives mobile innovation. He has cultivated a unique expertise in analyzing and deconstructing complex technology patents, translating dense legal and technical documents into clear, insightful reports on future products.
Follow Wccftech on Google to get more of our news coverage in your feeds.
