Google has begun rolling out the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2 update for eligible Pixel devices. This update builds on the Android 16 platform with new features, improvements, and bug fixes as part of the Quarterly Platform Releases (QPRs), which deliver updates to both AOSP and Pixel smartphones.
Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2: Key Details
- Build: BP31.250523.006
- Security Patch: May 2025
- Google Play Services: 25.18.34
- Emulator Support: x86 (64-bit), ARM (v8-A)
Connected Displays: Transforming Android Productivity
First shown at Google I/O 2025, Android 16 now lets users connect their phone or foldable to an external monitor using DisplayPort, turning it into a desktop-like setup. The phone and external screen run independently, with a taskbar, resizable windows, and side-by-side app support on the connected display.
For tablets with desktop windowing enabled, the external display extends the workspace, allowing apps, content, and cursors to move seamlessly between screens.
Desktop Windowing: Stable and Improved
Android 16 now offers a reliable and polished desktop windowing feature packed with useful new tools:
- Flexible Window Tiling: Arrange app windows in multiple intuitive layouts for better multitasking.
- Multiple Desktops: Create and switch between several desktop sessions with keyboard shortcuts and gestures.
- Enhanced App Compatibility: Older apps work more smoothly and look better on external screens without extra developer effort.
- Multi-Instance Management: Quickly switch between multiple instances of the same app via taskbar controls.
- Desktop Persistence: Window positions and sizes are now remembered between sessions, helping users maintain a steady workspace.
Google and Samsung have teamed up to improve this experience, benefiting Samsung DeX and other Android devices alike.
Developer Tips for Connected Displays
To optimize apps for this new environment, developers should:
- Support any window size and orientation, as app windows can vary widely on connected displays.
- Add productivity-enhancing features such as multiple app instances and drag-and-drop data sharing.
- Handle dynamic display changes by adapting to different display densities and configurations.
- Enable use of external devices like keyboards, mice, and webcams to create a more desktop-like experience.
- Implement keyboard shortcuts and mouse interactions for a richer user experience.
Bug Fixes in Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2
This update also fixes several issues including:
- Auto dark theme not working
- Crashes in Now Playing when selecting tracks
- Camera launch failures
- Missing shortcuts for new apps
- Home button unresponsiveness in app list UI
- Wallpaper settings misalignment
- Lock screen Gemini failures
Availability
Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2 is available for Pixel 6 series, Pixel 7 series, Pixel 8 and 9 series, Pixel Fold, Pixel Tablet, and Pixel a-series devices. Devices enrolled in the Android 16 Beta program will automatically get the update over the air.
Developers can enable desktop windowing features in developer settings and start testing today. Android Emulator support for connected displays will be available in the near future.