Get Ready for Android 16: A Deep Dive into the QPR1 Update and Material 3 Expressive
The wait is almost over! Android 16, the latest iteration of the popular mobile operating system, is just around the corner. While the stable build is not yet available, the major QPR1 update is already in beta, bringing with it the highly anticipated Material 3 Expressive redesign. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at what’s new, how to install the beta, and what you need to know to get started.
What’s New in Android 16 QPR1?
The Android 16 Beta was relatively tame, with only a handful of minor changes. However, Google has been cooking up a new design language for months, and it’s finally here. Material 3 Expressive is a major overhaul of the Android design, introducing a revamped lockscreen, Quick Settings pane, and a new design language throughout the entire OS.
Supported Devices
As of now, all Google Pixel devices running on a Tensor chip are supported for Android 16 builds. The current list of supported devices includes:
- Pixel 6/Pro
- Pixel 6a
- Pixel 7/Pro
- Pixel 7a
- Pixel 8/Pro
- Pixel 8a
- Pixel Fold
- Pixel 9
- Pixel 9 Pro
- Pixel 9 Pro XL
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold
- Pixel 9a
- Pixel Tablet
How to Install Android 16 QPR1 Beta
To get started, you’ll need to opt-in to the beta program on the Google website. Once you’ve done that, you’ll be able to check for updates on your device to install the update. Alternatively, you can sideload the update using an OTA file.
Sideload the Update
To sideload the update, you’ll need to download the OTA file from Google’s Full OTA Image hosting site. Make sure to download the correct file for your device. Once you have the file, follow these steps:
- Boot your Pixel into Recovery mode by holding down the Power button and Volume down button simultaneously.
- Scroll down to “Apply update from ADB” and select it with the Power button.
- Launch a Command Prompt or Terminal and navigate to the ADB tools folder.
- Type in “adb sideload” followed by the file name of the .zip folder you downloaded from Google.
- Hit enter to start the process.
- Once the OTA is done installing, select the “Reboot now” option with your Power button.
Conclusion
Android 16 QPR1 is a major update that brings a new design language to the table. With the Material 3 Expressive redesign, Android is getting a fresh new look that’s sure to impress. If you’re eager to try out the beta, follow the steps above to get started. Remember to always back up your data before installing any new update, and be patient as the process may take some time.
Actionable Insights
- Make sure to opt-in to the beta program on the Google website to get access to the update.
- Download the correct OTA file for your device from Google’s Full OTA Image hosting site.
- Follow the steps above to sideload the update using an OTA file.
- Be patient and back up your data before installing any new update.
Summary
Android 16 QPR1 is a major update that brings a new design language to the table. With the Material 3 Expressive redesign, Android is getting a fresh new look that’s sure to impress. If you’re eager to try out the beta, follow the steps above to get started. Remember to always back up your data before installing any new update, and be patient as the process may take some time.