Google has officially kicked off the next phase of its Android evolution with the release of Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1. As part of the upcoming September 2025 Feature Drop, this beta brings a refreshed interface, new customization options, and smoother performance to Pixel users through Google’s Quarterly Platform Release (QPR) program.
If you’re wondering whether your device is eligible and how to get this update, or you’re curious about the new features, this article covers everything in detail.
What Is Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1?
Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 (Build BP31.250502.008) is the first beta release under the QPR program for Android 16. These QPR releases offer feature updates and platform refinements between major Android versions.
It includes:
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Material 3 Expressive UI changes
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New customization tools
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Bug fixes and performance improvements
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May 2025 security patch
This beta is available to Pixel users and targets Google’s September Feature Drop.
Material 3 Expressive: A Bold New Design Language
More Personalization Than Ever Before
Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 introduces Material 3 Expressive, Google’s latest iteration of its visual language. The aim? Deliver a fluid, delightful, and personalized user experience across Android.
Key Highlights of Material 3 Expressive:
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Springy Animations: Transitions and UI elements now bounce and glide more naturally, offering a more tactile and intuitive experience.
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Dynamic Color Theming: UI elements adapt to your wallpaper and theme preferences for a more consistent aesthetic.
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Responsive Components: Buttons, menus, and cards adjust their layout and behavior based on your interaction patterns.
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Improved Typography: Better font weight, spacing, and alignment across apps improve readability and visual polish.
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More Customizable Quick Settings: Easily move, add, or remove frequently used settings like Wi-Fi, Flashlight, or DND.
Live Updates: Smarter Notifications in Real-Time
A major new addition is the Live Updates feature, which allows persistent notifications that update dynamically.
You can now:
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Track Uber Eats orders
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Follow your Lyft ride’s progress
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Navigate more intuitively with Google Maps
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View live scoreboards or delivery progress—all without interrupting your workflow
Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1: List of Eligible Devices
Not all Android users can access the update. Here’s the official list of Pixel devices eligible for Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1:
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Pixel 6 / 6 Pro / 6a
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Pixel 7 / 7 Pro / 7a
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Pixel 8 / 8 Pro / 8a
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Pixel 9 / 9 Pro / 9a
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Pixel Tablet
⚠️ Note: While this build is labeled “suitable for general use,” it’s still a beta version—which means occasional bugs and performance inconsistencies may occur.
How to Install Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 on Your Pixel Device
Step-by-Step Guide:
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Go to the Android Beta Program website:
Visit: https://www.google.com/android/beta -
Sign in with your Google Account:
Use the same account linked to your Pixel phone. -
Find your eligible device:
You’ll see your device listed if it’s supported. -
Enroll in the beta program:
Click the “Opt-in” button. -
Wait for the OTA update:
Within a few hours, you’ll receive an over-the-air (OTA) update to download and install Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1.
💡 Important: To enroll, your device must be running the public stable version of Android—not a developer preview or custom ROM.
Leaving the Beta Program
Want to exit the beta program?
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You can opt out anytime from the same beta page.
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However, doing so will force a factory reset, wiping your data.
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Make sure to back up your important files before leaving.
What’s Next for Android 16?
Although Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 is just the beginning, it sets the tone for what we can expect in the final Android 16 release later this year. With Google refining both design and functionality, the upcoming updates will likely focus on:
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Better battery management
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Enhanced privacy controls
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AI-powered contextual features
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Continued Material You/Material 3 refinement
Key Takeaways
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Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 is live for select Pixel devices.
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Features include Material 3 Expressive, customizable Quick Settings, and Live Updates.
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You can easily enroll via Google’s Beta Program site.
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Expect minor bugs, as it’s still under development.
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Backup your data before joining or exiting the beta.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1?
Answer: It’s the first beta release of Android 16 under Google’s Quarterly Platform Release (QPR) initiative. It introduces UI changes, new features, and security enhancements before the full Android 16 release.
Which devices are eligible for Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1?
Answer: The update is available on select Pixel devices including Pixel 6 to Pixel 9 series and Pixel Tablet.
How can I install Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1?
Answer: Visit android.com/beta, enroll your device in the beta program, and wait for the OTA update.
Is it safe to install Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1?
Answer: While it’s generally stable, it’s still beta software and may include bugs or performance issues not present in stable versions.
What is Material 3 Expressive in Android 16?
Answer: It’s Google’s latest design language in Android 16, offering a more fluid, animated, and personalized user interface.
