Android
Android 15 QPR1 beta brings desktop mode to Pixel Tablet, settings redesign, and lock screen widgets and more
Key Points:
- Desktop Windowing: Allows multiple apps to run in resizable windows, enhancing productivity on Pixel Tablets.
- Settings Redesign: Streamlined organization with Material You updates for easier navigation.
- Lock Screen Widgets: Brings back lock screen widgets, but only on Pixel Tablets.
Android 15 QPR1 Beta: New Features and Installation Guide for Pixel Devices
Google has introduced several new features with the Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2, focusing on improved multitasking and usability on Pixel devices, especially tablets. Let’s explore the key updates in this release and how to install the beta version on your device.
Desktop Windowing on Pixel Tablet
One of the major highlights is the new desktop windowing mode, now available in Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2 for Pixel Tablets. This feature allows users to resize app windows and run multiple apps simultaneously, giving a more desktop-like experience. You can pin apps on the taskbar, and each app window now has a customizable header bar with window controls. These controls let you switch between fullscreen and windowed modes with ease.
To enable this mode:
- Go to Settings > System > Developer options.
- Turn on Freeform Windows.
Once activated, you can adjust app windows by dragging a handle at the top of each app window, making multitasking even more flexible. The desktop windowing mode can be controlled through keyboard shortcuts for added convenience.
Settings Redesign with Material You
Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2 also brings a redesigned Settings app, improving organization and aesthetics. The new layout groups related preferences under visually distinct sections, helping users navigate more easily. The search bar has been revamped into a taller, pill-shaped design, and the app items are displayed in clear cards, making them easier to distinguish. These tweaks enhance the overall user experience while giving a fresh look.
Lock Screen Widgets Return (Tablet-Only)
Lock screen widgets, previously removed from Android versions, have made a comeback in Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2. These widgets are available by default on Pixel Tablets and allow users to add app widgets like Spotify, Google Clock, and Google Weather directly on the lock screen. Users can customize their lock screen widget panel without unlocking the device, although unlocking is required to access the full app.
Currently, this feature is exclusive to tablets, with no support for phones in this beta version.
How to Install Android 15 QPR1 Beta on Pixel Devices
The Android 15 QPR1 Beta is available for Pixel devices released since 2021, including Pixel 6, Pixel 7, and Pixel 8 series. You can install the beta via two methods:
- OTA Update via the Android Beta Program:
- Visit google.com/android/beta and opt in with your Pixel device.
- After enrolling, check for the OTA update on your device and install it.
- Manual Installation via Sideload:
- Download the Android 15 Beta OTA file for your specific device.
- Boot your device into Recovery Mode and navigate to ADB Sideload.
- Connect your phone to a computer with ADB tools and use the command
adb sideloadto install the update. - Once completed, reboot your device.
Make sure to back up your data and enable OEM Unlocking before attempting a sideload.
Most people will be installing via the Android Beta Program, but you can also flash or sideload.
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel 9 Pro XL: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel 9 Pro: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel 9: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel 8a: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel 8 Pro: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel 8: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel Fold: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel Tablet: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel 7a: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel 7 Pro: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel 7: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel 6a: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel 6 Pro: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel 6: Factory Image — OTA
Conclusion
With Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2, Google is enhancing the user experience with features like desktop windowing, a revamped settings app, and the return of lock screen widgets for tablets. These updates push Android closer to a more flexible, desktop-like environment, especially on larger devices like the Pixel Tablet.
For those interested in trying out these features, the beta is available now for Pixel devices. Be mindful, however, that these updates are still in beta, and you may encounter bugs or unfinished features.