- Android 16 Beta 2.1 update brings important bug fixes for Pixel devices.
- Improvements include visible UI buttons, stable launcher, and reliable navigation.
- A few known issues remain, especially with LDAC audio and Identity Check crashes.
Shortly after the release of the Beta 2 version earlier this month, Google has officially made the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2.1 update available. Even though it may appear to be a minor patch at first glance, this update offers much-needed improvements that Pixel users have been waiting for.
Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2.1 Update Rolls Out: Bug Fixes, Smoother Experience for Pixel Users
What’s New in the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2.1 Update
Fixing bugs and improving the user experience are the primary goals of the update. This patch should help you feel less frustrated if you experienced bugs or strange behavior in Beta 2.
- Clearer Device Admin Settings: The “Approve” button in the Device Admin section was previously almost invisible, which was a straightforward but inconvenient problem. Now that it’s fixed, managing settings is simpler.
- Lock Screen Sound Toggle Fixed: Despite the sound still being audible, some users reported that the sound toggle was stuck on “off.” The setting now matches what it says after that discrepancy was fixed.
- Back Button Functions Properly: A bug that occasionally caused the Android back button to ignore taps has been fixed. The navigation of the app should feel seamless again.
- Launcher No Longer Crashes: The overall stability of the home screen has improved with the fix of a frustrating crash that occurred when swiping up from the bottom to access the launcher.
Known Issues You Should Be Aware Of
Even though this update makes significant improvements, there are still some issues. When Identity Check is enabled, some users continue to report app crashes. If you experience similar problems, temporarily shutting it off might be helpful.
Additionally, audio problems might not go away if you’re using Bluetooth headphones with an LDAC codec. Although Google hasn’t fixed this yet, it will probably be fixed in a later update.
Which Devices Receive the Update for Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2.1?
You’re in luck if you own any of the Pixel devices listed below:
- Pixel 6
- Pixel 6A
- Pixel 6 Pro
- Pixel 7
- Pixel 7a
- Pixel 7 Pro
- Pixel 8
- Pixel 8a
- Pixel 8 Pro
- Pixel Fold
- Pixel Tablet
The update is already automatically en route to your device if you are a member of the beta program.
So, despite its small size, the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2.1 update is very stable. It brings the most recent security updates to your Pixel device and fixes bugs. Even though there are still some problems, it’s a definite improvement. This update demonstrates Google’s apparent focus on making Android 16 the most polished version to date.
