Google released Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 during its Google I/O keynote, downloadable onto Pixel devices dating back to the Pixel 6.
Labeled as build number BP31.250502.008, this build will contain new platform features, bug fixes, performance optimizations, and the August 2025 security patches. On top of that, users will also spot the beginnings of the Material 3 Expressive rollout. Look for it in the notifications, quick settings, lock screen, and launcher.
Supported devices: Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, 8, 8 Pro, 8a, 9, 9 Pro, 9a, Pixel Tablet series devices.
Release date: May 20, 2025
Build: BP31.250502.008
Emulator support: x86 (64-bit), ARM (v8-A)
Security patch level: May 2025
Google Play services: 25.13.33
Flashable factory images and OTA files are now live. The OTA is also live, so if you’re more into that, enroll via the link below.
I downloaded the beta and immediately noticed two UI changes. First, I have more room on the home screen for apps—I added another row with my AI chatbots and search engines for quick accessibility. The second is the Material 3 Expressive visual experience in notifications, the indicators in the upper right-hand corner of the screen, and the settings. It's a vibrant look, and I like it. Everyone has different tastes, so we'll see what others think.
I did the same. I am really digging the changes. Only issue I'm having is my phone is extremely laggy. Other than that everything looks amazing.
Just installed. Battery life sucks and full of bugs. Might as well go back to an iPhone at this rate.
How can you say that battery life sucks after having it installed for an hour while sitting there testing for bugs? Seems like you're giving it a bit of a workout where the battery would have to work.
Yes you should.
Ridiculous the final version of Android 16 wasn't released today for public use. What a huge marketing mistake. All of Google's focus on AI for the last year is taking their eye off the little things that Google used to do well