Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Google Releases Android 16 QPR2 Beta 3, Final Test Build for Pixel Phones

Google signals a feature freeze ahead of December’s stable rollout, with a caution to disable experimental Desktop Mode to prevent SystemUI crashes.

Overview

  • Enrollment now includes the new Pixel 10 Pro Fold alongside Pixel 10, 10 Pro, and 10 Pro XL, expanding test coverage to the latest hardware.
  • Over-the-air updates are live for Android Beta Program devices, with manual sideload and factory images available for those who don’t see the OTA.
  • Google highlights a known issue where enabling the developer Desktop Mode triggers immediate SystemUI crashes, advising users to turn it off before updating.
  • Beta 3 delivers broad fixes, addressing excessive launcher CPU use on foldables, adaptive charging reaching 100%, 50MP photo rainbow artifacts, failed Play System Updates, Bluetooth audio misrouting, and limited 6GHz Wi‑Fi access in New Zealand.
  • User-facing tweaks include a new '+' button to pin app shortcuts to the home screen, a Live Caption control in the volume panel, and larger search-bar icons.