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Google has officially launched Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1, rolling out a massive design overhaul along with powerful AI features and improved user customization. This beta release brings a fresh look and feel to Pixel devices and sets the stage for a smarter, more personal Android experience.
A New Era with Material 3 Expressive Design
Android 16 introduces the Material 3 Expressive design language, which marks a dramatic shift in the visual interface. Key UI elements have been revamped for better accessibility and aesthetic appeal:
- Redesigned Quick Settings & Notifications: Android 16 offers a cleaner, more intuitive layout in the notification shade and quick settings panel.
- Modern Lock Screen Layouts: The lock screen now supports customizable clock styles and notification displays for a more tailored look.
- Sleeker Volume Slider: The updated volume controls include a slim, vertical design with animated sound waveforms for better visual feedback.
AI-Powered Wallpaper & Personalization
With this beta release, Android 16 focuses heavily on AI customization, offering dynamic and immersive user experiences:
- Live Weather Effects on Wallpaper: Users can apply real-time effects like rain, fog, or sunshine to their home screen, powered by AI.
- “Shape” Framing Feature: Adds artistic frames around subjects in wallpapers, offering a creative twist to personalization.
- Cinematic Wallpaper Mode: Enhanced 3D parallax motion creates a depth effect, making static images come alive as you move your phone.
Smarter Lock Screen and Notification Controls
Android 16 QPR1 gives users more control over their lock screen with new layout choices and real-time data integrations:
- Custom Notification Views: Choose between “Compact” and “Full List” formats to manage how notifications appear on the lock screen.
- Live Updates (Live Activities): Like iOS’s Live Activities, Android now allows real-time updates on the lock screen, such as tracking ride-sharing services or food deliveries.
Device Compatibility
Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 is currently available for the following Pixel devices:
- 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, 9a
- Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold
Users can enroll in the Android Beta Program to receive the update over-the-air.
App info redesign
Recents multitasking redesign with drop-down options
Volume slider + panel redesign
Audio sharing
Wallpaper & Style redesign
App list redesign
- Now a sheet instead of being fullscreen
At a Glance shrinks, but you still can’t turn it off
Notifications redesign
Settings app redesign
Lockscreen redesign
- At a Glance moves to the bottom of the large clock
- When it’s the corner clock, the day/date and temperature move to the right
New homescreen grid sizes
Quick Settings redesign
Known Issues in Beta 1
As with any beta release, Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 comes with minor bugs. One reported issue is that newly installed apps may not automatically appear on the home screen, even if the setting is enabled. However, these apps remain accessible through the app drawer.
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