Android 16 QPR2 Beta 2 Lands on Pixel with Security Boosts and Fresh Features

Google has started rolling out Android 16 QPR2 beta 2 to Pixel devices, including the newest Pixel 10 series.

This quarterly platform release is more than just a minor patch; it delivers an array of useful features, notable security enhancements, and deeper system optimizations aimed at both developers and everyday users.

One of the biggest milestones in this beta is that it has reached platform stability, meaning developers can now rely on APIs and behaviors being final for testing their apps. As part of this update, Google has also bundled the September 2025 security patch, keeping Pixel phones ahead of the curve when it comes to vulnerabilities.

A standout change is a new developer verification requirement that will come into force starting September 2026. In certain regions, only apps from verified developers will be allowed on certified Android devices. While this move may limit sideloading flexibility, it aims to improve trust and reduce malicious apps in circulation.

The update also adds SMS OTP protection. Messages containing retriever hashes can now be delayed by up to three hours, a measure designed to reduce fraud and unauthorized logins. On the visual side, QPR2 beta 2 introduces new custom app icon shapes, which can be applied universally across apps and folder previews, giving Pixel owners more control over personalization.

Performance-wise, Android 16 QPR2 beta 2 enhances garbage collection within the system, improving how memory is managed in apps written in Java or Kotlin. This may not be immediately visible to the casual user, but it helps keep devices running smoother, especially when multitasking. In the health space, Health Connect now supports automatic step tracking and expanded exercise data, making it a more comprehensive hub for fitness metrics.

The beta is available for devices from the Pixel 6 all the way to the Pixel 10 lineup. According to Google, it is stable enough for daily use, although as with any beta, bugs may persist. Enthusiasts can access it by joining the Android Beta Program.

For those eyeing the new Google Pixel 10 Pro XL 5G, current offers show competitive pricing: €1,194.00 / £1,199.00 for the 256GB variant with 16GB RAM, and €1,428.15 / £1,319.00 for the 512GB option. These flagship models are designed to take full advantage of the latest Android features rolling out through updates like QPR2.