Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 brings new features, UI tweaks, and a GPU driver update for Pixel 10
Hot on the heels of the Android 16 QPR2 stable update, which rolled out earlier this month as part of the December Pixel Drop, Google is now kicking off the beta program for Android 16 QPR3, the third and final Quarterly Platform Release (QPR) in the Android 16 cycle.
If you own a Pixel 6 or newer model, you can now try out Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 and get an early look at new features and changes in the latest update ahead of its public release in March 2026.
What’s new in Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1
Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 has quite a few new features and quality-of-life improvements for the Pixel family. Most notably, the new update finally brings the long-awaited driver update for the Pixel 10's PowerVR GPU, bumping the driver from version 1.602.400 to 1.634.2906. This should address some of the compatibility and performance issues many users reported while playing Genshin Impact.
The update also includes new folder open and close animations, adjustments to the Edit tiles screen in Quick Settings, and a new Samsung-style three-button navigation layout. Finally, the update introduces adjustable flashlight brightness, the ability to remove the At a Glance widget from the home screen, and further refinements to the Always On Display (AOD).
Eligible Pixel devices
The following Pixel devices can now try out the new Android 16 beta:
- Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, Pixel 10 Pro Fold
- Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Pixel 9a
- Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a
- Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a
- Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a
- Pixel Fold
- Pixel Tablet
How to install Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1
The easiest way to try out Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 is by enrolling your device in the Android Beta program. You can expect to receive an OTA update shortly after joining the program.
You can also install the update manually using flashable OTA images provided by Google. If you decide to go this route, make sure to read through Google’s official installation instructions. Note that once you install Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1, you won’t be able to go back to the stable channel without factory resetting your Pixel.
Source(s)
Add as a preferred