Google has started rolling out the Android 16 Quarterly Platform Release Beta 1 (QPR1) update on some Pixel phones. This under-testing update includes the Material 3 Expressive redesign that was previewed at the Android Show I/O Edition just recently. 9To5Google reported a list of enhancements that the Android 16 QPR1 is introducing. Let us take a better look at everything this new beta update will come with on some Pixel phones.
Android 16 QPR1 Update: What’s New
Wallpaper Shape and Weather ‘Effects’
Google Pixel devices based on Android 16 are receiving a new “Effects” feature that introduces customization options on wallpapers such as shape framing, color overlays, and animated weather effects like rain or snow. Included in the initial beta of Android 16 QPR1, this AI-based feature allows users to stylize any selected image using options such as “Shape,” which surrounds objects in themed cut-outs, and “Weather,” which includes local real-time weather animations. The “Cinematic” 3D wallpaper effect now falls under this single “Effects” menu.
Recents Multitasking Overhaul with Drop-down Controls
Android 16 QPR1 introduces a revamped Recents menu with a more uniform appearance across devices, especially foldables like the Pixel Fold. The update replaces irregular preview sizes with a uniform grid displaying four apps, improving multitasking. It redesigns app choices with a pill-shaped drop-down button on each app card, offering improved accessibility. The volume slider and panel are also redesigned, and Audio Sharing is being introduced to allow multiple users to listen to the same source.
Style Redesign with Material 3 Expressive
This update brings significant visual and feature improvements led by the Material 3 Expressive design language. The UI introduces richer icons, a revamped lock screen customization, and more accessible clock settings. Users can now explore dynamic and small size options, use a color intensity slider, and choose lock screen shortcuts displayed in a grid instead of a carousel. A new toggle lets users choose the shortcut position, while the notification settings menu now includes “Show seen notifications,” compact/full views, and more intuitive toggle options.
Glance Mini-fies
Android 16 QPR1 adds changes to the At a Glance widget, making it smaller but still not removable. While users expected a full toggle to disable it, this beta release only minimizes it freeing up home screen space. A message in Pixel Launcher reads: “Enjoy more space for apps.” Grid sizes are now categorized as Small, Medium, Large, and XL, based on icon size. The minimized widget extends to the lock screen as well, improving layout flexibility.
Notification Redesign
A new notification experience comes with Android 16 QPR1. On the lock screen and notification shade, users now see a “Clear All” button at the center with shortcuts to notification history and settings. These appear only when notifications are active. A new layout on the lock screen offers Compact view (with one notification visible) and Full list mode (with overflow support). These settings are grouped under a dedicated “Notifications on lock screen” page. Notification swipe gestures are also now smoother, offering a better interaction experience.
Also Read: Google I/O 2025
Settings App Redesign
One of the most noticeable visual changes in Android 16 QPR1 is the Settings app redesign. Abandoning the grayscale, Google now uses pastel-inspired colors across categories. Though functionally unchanged, the icons for categories like Connected Devices, Network & Internet, and Apps are now color-coded. Some sections share similar shades (e.g., System and About Phone retain gray tones). This refresh aligns with the broader Material 3 Expressive UI, offering a more modern and visually engaging interface across Android 16.
Android 16 QPR1 Update: Supported Pixel Devices
According to 9To5Google, the Android 16 QPR1 beta is available for all Google Pixel phones powered by Tensor chips. These include:
- Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a
- Pixel 7, 7 Pro, 7a
- Pixel 8, 8 Pro, 8a
- Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold
- Pixel Tablet
- Pixel Fold
Note: This update is currently only available to participants of Google’s Android 16 Beta Program.