The latest version of Android 16, QPR1 Beta 3.1, arrives with a list of 24 bug fixes borrowed from Pixel devices
In a move to enhance system stability and polish user experience, Google has rolled out the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3.1 update for Pixel devices. This update, primarily focused on bug fixing, addresses over 20 issues across various Pixel models [1][2][3][4].
One of the key improvements in this update is the resolution of Wi-Fi-related crashes that were causing unexpected device reboots or instability. The system's processing of network data and statistics has been improved to prevent such issues [2][4].
The location tile in Quick Settings has also been restored to its traditional pin icon, replacing the inconsistent cursor arrow. This change aims to improve interface clarity and user recognition [2].
Other fixes include addressing a bug where the bottom row of pinned apps and search bar sometimes disappeared on the home screen, improving notification display and dismissal animations to prevent overlapping notifications in the shade, and correcting clipped or misaligned Quick Settings UI on unfolded foldable Pixels [4].
Additionally, the update addresses stability issues caused by the Context Hub component crashing due to memory leaks, and system hangs/crashes during unlock related to the camera’s Ambient Light Sensor by optimizing sensor data retrieval [4].
Multiple fixes have been implemented to address unexpected reboots and system hangs, and a brief screen flicker when launching apps from the notification shade has been addressed [4].
The update is available as an over-the-air update and factory image to all supported Pixel devices running Android 16 QPR1 Beta, including Pixel 6 series and later models up to the Pixel 9 series and Tablet [1][3].
This update is a bug-fixing and stability-focused release aimed at smoothing out various issues experienced by beta testers before the stable QPR1 update is expected [1][2][4].
Other issues addressed in the update include media player notification clipping during device rotation, widgets on the home screen failing to load, internal input system processes racing, device crashes due to Context Hub running out of memory, home screen elements becoming inaccessible during screen transitions, black translucent bars appearing at the top and bottom of the home screen, a system crash that could occur when using media features, especially when connected to a computer for media transfer, media player on the lock screen disappearing or becoming unresponsive, a kernel paging request handling issue, Bluetooth crashes and instability caused by an "Unimplemented Packet Type" error, and a video call muted audio issue [1].
The OTA images for Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Pixel 9a, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a, Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, and Pixel 6a are immediately available [1].
- Users may find the resolution of Wi-Fi-related crashes particularly beneficial for their smartphone's stability, as these crashes were previously causing unexpected reboots or instability.
- To enhance the user experience on Pixel devices, Google is optimizing the processing of network data and statistics, which should result in improved performance for gadgets like smartphones and tablets.
