Android 16 QPR2 Beta 2 Rolls Out to Pixel Phones

Select Pixel devices are now getting the Android 16 QPR2 Beta 2 update. This update comes with changes in design and security. It also improves the overall system as Google moves closer to the stable rollout.

One of the most visible changes comes to the home screen. Pixel owners now get five new icon shape choices including

Folder previews also follow these new styles, letting users give their phone a more personal look.

Security sees a notable upgrade in this build. Messages that include an SMS retriever hash, often used for one-time passwords, will now be delayed for most apps.

This measure makes it harder for bad actors to hijack codes and steal account access. Google is also moving toward tighter control over who can distribute apps.

Starting in September 2026, and first in select regions, only verified developers will be able to register apps for installation on certified Android devices.

The only exception will be apps installed through the Android Debug Bridge, commonly used by developers for testing.

Android 16 QPR2 Beta 2 comes with better garbage collection. This software increases the smooth performance of the phone and cuts down power usage.

This update will make the phone respond better, and the battery life should also increase.

The update also improves the fitness and health tracking app. Health Connect now supports native step tracking and can collect more exercise data directly from a phone’s built-in sensors.

This feature gives users more accurate health results without the need for third-party apps.

If you are in the Android Beta plan, you will get the new build on your phone over the air. If you do not have a Pixel, you can still test the update. Google has put out 64-bit test files that run on the Android tool in Android Studio.

With QPR2 Beta 2, the API and app speed are now set. This lets devs make apps with trust as we near the main rollout. There is no set date yet for the full rollout. But this beta shows we are near.