Android Canary 2508 Features: Flashlight Brightness, Icon Shapes, and Android 16 QPR2 Beta 1 Updates

Google has released Android Canary 2508, the third release in the new testing program. The update includes two significant additions: adjustable flashlight brightness and the ability to select one of five icon shapes. Additionally, it integrates Android 16 QPR2 Beta 1 changes, such as lockscreen widgets on phones and a fully edge-to-edge Settings app. The Canary channel is designed for developers to test new Android APIs, and features may not always make it into a stable release.

Google has released Android Canary 2508, the third iteration in its new testing program. This update introduces two significant enhancements: adjustable flashlight brightness and the ability to select one of five icon shapes. Additionally, it integrates changes from Android 16 QPR2 Beta 1, including lockscreen widgets on phones and a fully edge-to-edge Settings app. The Canary channel is designed for developers to test new Android APIs, and features may not always make it into a stable release.

The update also includes a platform stability milestone and a security patch, which is part of Google's QPR2 Beta 1 release. This beta version is suitable for general use and includes substantial system-level changes, setting the stage for Android 16's continued evolution. The lock screen widgets feature, previously available on tablets, is now making its debut on Pixel phones. Users can access a dedicated page with customizable widgets by swiping inward from the right edge of the lock screen [1].

The Pixel 10 series launch coincides with the rollout of Android 16 QPR2 Beta 1, which includes a Material 3 Expressive redesign. The beta release is available for a wide range of Pixel devices, from the Pixel 6 series to the latest Pixel 9 Pro XL and Pixel Fold models. Users enrolled in the Android 16 Beta Program will receive this update automatically, while others can opt out to avoid data loss [2].

The Canary channel is a crucial part of Google's development process, allowing developers to test new features and APIs. While not all features will make it into the stable release, this channel provides a valuable opportunity for early testing and feedback.

References:

[1] https://www.androidauthority.com/lock-screen-widgets-on-phones-android-16-qpr2-3589668/
[2] https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/technology/mobiles-tabs/google-starts-rolling-out-android-16-qpr2-beta-1-for-pixel-devices-heres-how-to-get-the-update/articleshow/123423397.cms