Android
Android 15 QPR1 Beta 3 Update: Thicker status bar on Pixel 9 and key fixes for Pixel devices

The Android 15 QPR1 Beta 3 brings significant updates to Pixel devices, particularly the Pixel 9 series. A key change is the thicker status bar introduced to better accommodate the large front-facing camera cutout on the Pixel 9 Pro. This adjustment resolves an issue where the selfie camera was too close to the bottom of the status bar, which became noticeable in certain apps like YouTube, especially in Ambient Mode. Now, the status bar has been raised to provide more clearance, improving the overall visual experience.
This change is evident across the Pixel Launcher and apps, where items on the screen now sit slightly lower. The update provides a more balanced look, especially when watching videos. Users with Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL devices will notice the improved status bar height across the entire interface.
Key Improvements and Bug Fixes
Google has rolled out Android 15 QPR1 Beta 3 to Pixel devices, marking what is likely the final major beta before the official December launch. It comes about six weeks after the previous release, addressing a range of issues. While no new images are available yet, over-the-air (OTA) updates are now live for installation.
The Quarterly Platform Releases (QPR) tend to offer more substantial changes compared to regular monthly updates, which focus mainly on bug fixes. These releases often introduce new features and user interface (UI) tweaks, ideal for refining the Android experience ahead of the next major version.
Here are some of the major fixes included in Android 15 QPR1 Beta 3:
Notifications and System Issues
- Notification display bug: A bug causing notifications to appear cut off has been fixed.
- System memory paging: Some devices previously experienced crashes or restarts due to memory issues, which have now been resolved.
- Volume button functionality: Problems with volume controls when connected to certain Bluetooth devices have been fixed.
Home Screen and UI Problems
- App icons issue: A bug that caused some app icons to display as default system icons rather than their actual icons has been fixed.
- Multi-user switch issue: Users reported slow performance and occasional crashes when switching between primary and secondary users. This issue has now been addressed.
- System UI crash: A problem that caused the system interface to crash has been fixed.
- Foldable device issue: Foldable devices were experiencing blank screens when unfolded, which is now resolved.
Additional Resolved Issues
- Heads-up notifications: The update fixes an issue that sometimes prevented users from interacting with heads-up notifications.
- System crash during bug reports: The system would sometimes crash when a bug report was taken; this has now been fixed.
- Bluetooth improvements: A crash related to Bluetooth device resources has been fixed, and LE Audio volume control has been enhanced, allowing individual volume adjustments for each connected Bluetooth device.
Pixel Devices Supported
Android 15 QPR1 Beta 3 is available for a wide range of Pixel devices, including:
- Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a
- Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a
- Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a
- Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold
- Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold
Users can install the update via the Android Beta Program or through manual flashing or sideloading. While factory images and OTA downloads are not yet available for some devices, updates can be accessed over the air for those enrolled in the Beta Program.
Conclusion
Android 15 QPR1 Beta 3 continues Google’s trend of refining the user experience on Pixel devices, particularly with the larger camera cutout on the Pixel 9 Pro. With significant bug fixes, Bluetooth improvements, and better UI adjustments, the beta brings Pixel devices closer to a smoother, more stable Android experience ahead of the full release in December.
Android
Android 16 Is Coming: New features to get excited about

Google is already working on Android 16, and it’s shaping up to be an exciting update for Android fans. Even though Android 15 just rolled out, the next version is in the early stages, with clues popping up in software code. This shows Google isn’t slowing down when it comes to improving its popular mobile system.
One big hint about Android 16 comes from changes in how audio works. The code suggests that the update might bring better support for music and sound tools. This could mean clearer audio, smoother playback, or even new ways to enjoy songs and videos on your phone. For people who love music or watch a lot of content, this could make a real difference.
Another cool feature in the works is something called “host image copy.” It’s a fancy term, but it basically means Android 16 might let apps share pictures or screenshots more easily. Imagine taking a photo or grabbing a screen image and sending it to another app without extra steps. This could save time and make things like editing or sharing way simpler.
These early signs show Google is focused on making Android 16 practical and user-friendly. The audio upgrades could improve how we listen, while the image-sharing trick might speed up everyday tasks. Since it’s still early, not everything is set in stone, but the ideas are promising.
For now, Android fans can look forward to a system that keeps getting better. Google’s fast pace means we won’t have to wait too long to see what’s next. With Android 16 already cooking, it’s clear the tech giant wants to keep its users happy with fresh, helpful updates.
Android
New Android Auto update brings games with a catch

Google is rolling out a fun update for Android Auto, adding games to keep drivers entertained. This change, spotted in the latest Android Auto version (12.0), lets users play simple games right on their car’s screen. However, there’s a small twist: you’ll need to connect your phone to the car with a USB cable.
The update includes a “GameSnacks” feature, which offers quick, easy-to-play games. These are perfect for passing the time during a long wait, like at a charging station or in traffic. The games are lightweight and designed to work smoothly without needing a strong internet connection. But here’s the key detail—wireless Android Auto won’t support this. You must plug in your phone using a cable to enjoy them.
Why the cable rule? It seems Google wants to ensure a stable connection for the games to run well. Wireless setups can sometimes lag or drop, which could ruin the fun. Plus, a wired link might help save battery life on your phone while you play. For now, only a few users have this feature, as Google is testing it slowly.
This isn’t the first time Android Auto has added extras. Over the years, it’s grown from just maps and music to a full dashboard with apps and now games. Still, some might wonder if games could distract drivers. Google likely thought of that, so the feature only works when the car is parked.
If you’re excited to try this, check your Android Auto app for version 12.0. Grab a USB cable, plug in, and see if GameSnacks pops up. It’s a small addition, but it could make those boring waits a lot more fun!
Android
Android 16 brings simpler app controls

Google is working on Android 16, and it’s set to make managing apps easier than ever. A new feature spotted in the latest test version lets you tweak app settings right from the app’s info page. This means less digging through menus to change how an app works on your phone.
In the current Android setup, if you want to adjust things like permissions or notifications, you often have to jump between different screens. It’s not hard, but it can feel like a chore. With Android 16, everything you need—permissions, data use, and more—will be in one spot. For example, you could quickly turn off an app’s access to your camera or check how much battery it’s eating up, all without leaving that page.
This change comes from something called “App Settings Panels,” which Google is testing now. It’s not live for everyone yet, but it’s a sign of what’s coming. The idea is to save you time and make your phone feel smoother to use. Imagine opening an app’s info and seeing all the key options laid out simply—no extra taps needed.
There’s more good news: Android 16 might roll out sooner than usual. Some rumors say Google could drop it as early as June 2025, instead of the typical fall release. That’s because they’re speeding up how they build and test updates. Of course, this is still in the works, so the exact date could shift.
For anyone who loves keeping their phone just right, this update looks like a win. Fewer steps to control apps mean less hassle and more time enjoying your device. Keep an eye out—Android 16 could change how you handle your apps for the better!
-
Apps1 year ago
Gboard Proofread feature will support selected text
-
News1 year ago
Samsung USA crafting One UI 6.1.1
-
News1 year ago
Breaking: Samsung Galaxy S22 may get Galaxy AI features
-
News1 year ago
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra with One UI 6.1 and all S24 AI features revealed
-
News1 year ago
One UI 6.1 Auracast (Bluetooth LE Audio) feature coming to many Samsung phones
-
News1 year ago
Satellite SOS feature coming to Google Pixel phones, evidence leaked
-
Apps11 months ago
Google’s fancy new Weather app is finally available for more Android phones
-
News1 year ago
Google Pixel evolves as Europe’s third best selling flagship