Google has introduced the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 update for its eligible Pixel device users. This new release distinguishes itself from earlier previews and beta versions of significant Android updates, as the Quarterly Platform Release builds are deemed stable and suitable for daily use. Noteworthy additions in this update include components from the recently unveiled Material 3 Expressive design language, which provides visual enhancements for notifications, quick settings, the lock screen, and the launcher. The final version of Android 16 is expected to be rolled out to users worldwide in June.
What to Anticipate with Android 16
The Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 update is now available for a range of devices, including the Google Pixel 6, 6a, 6 Pro, 7, 7a, 7 Pro, Fold, Tablet, 8, 8a, 8 Pro, 9, 9a, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, and 9 Pro Fold. This update features the Material 3 Expressive interface, which brings some design alterations to notifications, quick settings, the lock screen, and the launcher. The stable version of Android 16 will officially launch globally in June.
According to 9to5Google, the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 update introduces several changes. One significant update is the Quick Settings, which now includes resizable tiles and a background blur feature. Users will find a fully expanded Quick Settings layout with eight large tiles arranged in a 2×4 configuration, which can be customized for size and placement.
This beta update also refreshes the Brightness slider, making it rectangular with a prominent handle. In the Quick Settings, tiles representing enabled features appear in rounded rectangles or squares, while disabled tiles are displayed as circles.
With the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 update, users can resize Quick Settings tiles to half their usual size, displaying only the icon without text labels. Resizing is accomplished by tapping and dragging the slider to the desired size.
The Quick Settings tiles have been categorized by Connectivity, Utilities, Display, Privacy, Accessibility, and both system and user-installed apps in the latest beta update. Additionally, a reset button can be found at the bottom of the Quick Settings panel. The updated Notification Shade features a blurred background along with pill-shaped buttons for quick access to history, clearing all notifications, and adjusting alert preferences.
The design of the Recents menu has also been revamped in this update, providing a more cohesive experience, particularly for users with larger devices like the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold. The Recents menu now adopts a uniform grid format, improving upon the previously uneven layout found in Android 15. A button for options now appears as a pill-shaped icon above the app previews, replacing the old floating icon and enhancing visibility and accessibility.
Furthermore, the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 build introduces new home screen grid sizes and a redesigned lock screen. In the new lock screen configuration, the “At a Glance” information is positioned beneath the large clock, and when the clock is relocated to the corner, the date, day, and temperature adjust towards the right side.
Additionally, the App List is now presented on a sheet rather than occupying the entire screen. The Audio Sharing options receive a design update, along with a refreshed volume slider and adjustment panel. Update modifications also extend to the Settings app, App info, and the design of the Wallpaper & Style section, according to reports.
