Google’s newest update, Android 14 QPR2 Beta 3, is now available for Pixel devices, offering a host of improvements and fixes. This article provides an in-depth look at everything new in this latest beta release.
Key Highlights:
- Return of the “Your Pixel is up to date” screen for a seamless update experience.
- Assistant media recommendations for personalized audio content.
- Expandable Bluetooth tile in Quick Settings for easier device connections.
- Introduction of Repair Mode in QPR2 for software issue diagnostics.
- Resolution of various bugs affecting system performance and stability.
New Features and Enhancements:
With Beta 3, Pixel users will see the return of the reassuring “Your Pixel is up to date” screen post-update. This feature adds a touch of completion to the updating process.
Assistant Media Recommendations
Google Assistant now offers more intelligent media recommendations. Users can expect personalized suggestions for music, podcasts, and other audio content, tailored to their listening habits.
Expandable Bluetooth Tile in Quick Settings
The Bluetooth tile in the Quick Settings has been updated for enhanced convenience. It now allows users to browse for Bluetooth devices directly from the panel, simplifying the process of connecting devices.
Repair Mode in QPR2
The newly introduced Repair Mode helps diagnose and fix software issues on Pixel devices. This feature aims to ensure a smoother experience, even in the face of software glitches.
Bug Fixes and System Improvements
The Beta 3 update addresses various issues, enhancing system stability, performance, and connectivity. It also resolves specific problems related to the camera, accessibility, and Bluetooth connectivity. Notably, this update fixes issues like SPIR-V sequences not producing expected results for certain ARM Vulkan driver versions, devices becoming unresponsive or crashing post-restart, live wallpapers ceasing to animate, and more.
Compatibility and Availability
The update, approximately 347MB in size, is available for Pixel 5a, Pixel 6 series, Pixel 7 series, Pixel Fold, Pixel Tablet, Pixel 8, and Pixel 8 Pro devices enrolled in the beta program. It’s rolled out via OTA and can be manually checked in the device settings.
Android 14 QPR2 Beta 3 is a significant update for Pixel users, offering improved functionality, enhanced convenience, and a range of bug fixes. It marks an important step towards the stable release scheduled for March 2024. As always, beta versions may contain some bugs, so users looking for a more stable experience may prefer to wait for the official release.
