Download Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3 Update
Today, Google released Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3, a major update but that addresses several critical issues found in the previous Beta 2 release. The Beta 2 resolved various issues related to the system including — Auto dark theme now working, now playing is crashing, camera frequently fails to launch, and many more. But there’s a new Hotfix rolling out today for those running the QPR (Quarterly Platform Release) program on their Google Pixel devices.
The update addresses kernel-level issues that were causing system restarts, focusing on low-level system stability. Class loader problems that were triggering full phone restarts have also been resolved, indicating comprehensive system-level debugging.
Google has also addressed sensor connectivity issues, where various sensors including cameras, ambient light sensors, proximity sensors, accelerometers, gyroscopes, and hall sensors would disconnect from system processes, essentially breaking device functionality until reboot.
While stable Android 16 has already released with June 2025 Pixel Feature Drop, the third Android 16 QPR1 firmware upgrade continues with Google’s Material 3 Expressive design language and more experimental features; which will eventually make it to stable. The stable update does not get Material 3 Expressive just yet. Once the QPR1 Beta concludes, possibly after the third beta, the features will be migrated to stable Android 16.
Eligible devices include Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, Fold, 8, 8 Pro, 8a, 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold, 9a, Pixel Tablet series devices*.
Bug Fixes in QPR1 Beta 3
Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3 (July 2025)
- An issue around RTOS task list corruption that was causing restarts. (Issue #420999948, Issue #426316038)
- Launcher not completely displaying (Issue #428088033, Issue #428405658, Issue #429817851)
- Notification display issues (Issue #421792538, Issue #422749237, Issue #420418750, Issue #428896474)
- The media player in the notification pulldown fails to fully display and function. (Issue #419184923, Issue #421879049, Issue #421810067, Issue #423172198, Issue #422560004, Issue #424116279)
- Full phone restart due to class loader issues (Issue #427676713)
- Kernel issue causing restarts (Issue #408888279, Issue #409949346, Issue #409960197, Issue #410624610, Issue #407373090, Issue #430095518)
- Camera non-functional at startup with black screen (Issue #421870862, Issue #420725698)
- Status bar icons missing corner padding (Issue #419573315, Issue #419134909)
- Notification shade message folding breaks (Issue #421366916)
Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3: Google Tackles Major Issues While Users Await Battery Drain Fix
Google has officially released Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3 (build BP31.250610.004) for Pixel devices, addressing several critical issues that have been plaguing beta testers. This latest update, weighing in at approximately 521MB for most devices, brings substantial fixes across multiple system components while leaving some users hoping for resolution to persistent battery drain problems.
What’s New in Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3
The third beta iteration focuses heavily on stability improvements and bug fixes rather than introducing new features. Google has addressed several significant issues that were causing system instability and poor user experience.
Major System Fixes
RTOS Task List Corruption Resolution
One of the most critical fixes addresses RTOS (Real-Time Operating System) task list corruption that was causing unexpected device restarts. This issue, tracked under multiple bug reports including #420999948 and #426316038, was a significant stability concern affecting multiple Pixel models.
Launcher Display Issues
The update resolves problems where the Pixel Launcher wasn’t displaying completely, an issue that frustrated many users who found their home screens partially functional. This fix addresses multiple related bug reports and should restore normal launcher behavior.
Notification System Improvements
Google has implemented comprehensive fixes for notification display issues, tackling problems ranging from basic notification appearance to media player functionality in the notification pulldown. Users reported that media controls were failing to display properly or function correctly, issues that have now been resolved.
Camera and Sensor Fixes
Camera Startup Problems
The update addresses a particularly annoying issue where the camera would show a black screen at startup, rendering the camera app non-functional until a device restart. This fix should ensure reliable camera operation across all supported Pixel devices.
Status Bar Visual Improvements
Google has corrected status bar icon padding issues, ensuring that system icons display with proper spacing and alignment. Additionally, the update fixes notification shade message folding problems that were causing display inconsistencies.
Device Compatibility and Availability
Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3 is available for a comprehensive range of Pixel devices, including:
- Pixel 6 series (6, 6 Pro, 6a)
- Pixel 7 series (7, 7 Pro, 7a, Fold)
- Pixel 8 series (8, 8 Pro, 8a)
- Pixel 9 series (9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold, 9a)
- Pixel Tablet series
Users enrolled in the Android Beta Program will receive the update automatically via over-the-air delivery. The update size varies slightly by device, with most users reporting downloads between 483MB and 529MB.
Community Response and Ongoing Issues
Battery Drain Concerns Persist
Despite the extensive list of fixes, the Android beta community remains vocal about persistent battery drain issues. Multiple users on Reddit’s r/android_beta forum expressed frustration that battery optimization problems weren’t addressed in this release. Some users reported such severe battery drain that they opted out of the beta program entirely.
One user commented, “Yeah I just opted out because FUCK the battery drain man,” while another noted they’re “waiting for the stable to opt out because i do not want to wipe all my data and reinstall everything.”
Positive Improvements Noted
Several users reported specific improvements, including:
- Battery Health Display: The Battery Health feature now properly displays information on Pixel 9 and 9a devices, showing actual battery stats instead of “Unsupported”
- At A Glance Weather Icons: The weather display has returned to colorful icons instead of the previously implemented white minimalist design
- Gemini Lock Screen Fix: Issues with Gemini overlay appearing behind lock screen text have been resolved
How to download Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3?
Users can join the Android 16 QPR1 Beta program by enrolling their eligible Pixel device through Google’s official beta website. Once enrolled, devices automatically receive beta updates, including this latest release.
For users experiencing the update, installation times vary due to Pixel’s A/B partition system, which installs updates on a separate partition to minimize downtime and reduce the risk of device failure during updates.
Users can access Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3 through Google’s Android Beta for Pixel program. The update is delivered over-the-air (OTA) to enrolled devices, making the installation process seamless for beta participants.
- New beta testers: Visit Google’s Android Beta Program website to enroll your eligible Pixel device
- Current Android 16 Beta users: You’ll automatically receive QPR1 Beta 3 and future updates as they become available. Vsisit Settings > System Updates.
OTA Download Links
- Apply OTA images — can be installed without data reset and bootloader unlocking
- Factory Image Files (Downloads)
- Android Flash Tool Files (Install)
- Installation Instructions (Install)
- Download Android 16 GSI (Generic System Image)
Important Considerations for Beta Users
For those currently enrolled in the Android 16 Beta program, Google has provided some critical information:
- If you prefer to receive the public stable release of Android 16 instead of continuing with beta updates, you can opt out without wiping your device data—but you must do so before installing QPR1 Beta 1
- If you opt out after installing Beta 1 or future updates, your device data will be wiped according to standard program guidelines
- Opting out will trigger a “Downgrade” OTA update—if you want to wait for the stable release, simply ignore this update
Should You Install the Beta?
While beta releases are exciting for tech enthusiasts and developers, they come with inherent risks. Before installing Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1, consider:
- Beta software may have unexpected bugs affecting daily use
- Some apps might not function properly
- Battery life could be impacted
- Data loss is always a possibility
For developers and those who enjoy testing new features early, the beta provides valuable insights into upcoming Android capabilities. However, if you rely on your Pixel device for critical daily functions, waiting for the stable release might be the safer choice.
