Android 16 QPR1 Beta Update Brings Material 3 Design, Enhanced Multitasking, and New Features for Pixel Phones

Google has released Android 16 QPR1 beta for Pixels, bringing new features like Material 3 Expressive redesign, wallpaper shape and weather 'effects', recents multitasking redesign, and style redesign with bolder icons and lock screen customisation. The update also includes audio sharing, volume slider redesign, and expanded notification settings.

Google has released the Android 16 QPR1 beta for Pixel devices, introducing a suite of new features and design enhancements. The update, which is part of Google's ongoing Material 3 Expressive redesign, promises to improve user experience with a focus on customization, security, and accessibility.

Key Features of Android 16 QPR1 Beta

1. Material 3 Expressive Design Language:
- Google has rolled out the Material 3 Expressive design language, which includes new visuals for the launcher, notifications, lock screen, and a revamped Quick Settings page. This design language aims to provide a more intuitive and visually appealing user interface [2].

2. Wallpaper Shape and Weather Effects:
- The update introduces "Effects" for wallpaper, allowing users to turn their wallpaper into a specific shape. This feature includes options for weather effects, such as fog, rain, snow, and sun, as well as a cinematic 3D depth effect [1].

3. Recents Multitasking Redesign:
- The Recents Multitasking page has been revamped with a large-screen layout and drop-down options. This redesign aims to enhance the multitasking experience on larger screens [1].

4. Volume Slider and Panel Redesign:
- The volume slider and panel have been given a new makeover, providing a more modern and user-friendly interface [1].

5. Notification Panel and Lock Screen Customization:
- The notification panel includes more useful shortcuts for settings and history, with a "Clear All" button prominently placed in the center. The lock screen offers a new layout option, allowing users to choose between a full list or compact view of notifications [1].

6. Live Updates:
- Google has introduced Live Updates, which will allow users to see time-sensitive updates for navigation, deliveries, or rides using a new progress style template. This feature is expected to roll out to devices by the next year [1].

Implications for Users and Investors

The release of Android 16 QPR1 beta signals Google's commitment to continuous innovation and improvement in its Android operating system. For users, this means a more personalized and visually appealing experience. For investors, the update highlights Google's strategy to maintain its competitive edge in the mobile operating system market by continually enhancing its platform.

Conclusion

The Android 16 QPR1 beta represents a significant step forward in Google's Material 3 Expressive redesign. With a focus on customization, security, and accessibility, this update promises to deliver a more intuitive and visually appealing user experience. As the beta rolls out to eligible Pixel devices, users and investors alike can expect to see the benefits of these new features in the coming months.

References

[1] https://www.huaweicentral.com/android-16-qpr1-beta-is-out-with-live-updates-lock-screen-features-and-more/
[2] https://www.theverge.com/news/671153/google-beta-android-16-material-3-expressive-design-roll-out
[3] https://www.androidpolice.com/google-photos-is-starting-to-get-expressive/
[4] https://techcrunch.com/2025/05/16/google-i-o-2025-what-to-expect-including-updates-to-gemini-and-android-16/