Updated Android 16 QPR2 beta launch unveils customizable app icons for Pixel 6 and successor devices
In a significant move for Android users, Google has released the beta version of Android 16 QPR-2 for testing on Pixel 6 and newer devices, including the Pixel 10 series. This new update promises several improvements aimed at enhancing user experience, reducing CPU usage, and extending battery life.
One of the key features of Android 16 QPR-2 is the introduction of a new Generational Concurrent Mark-Compact (CMC) Garbage Collector for the Android Runtime (ART). This garbage collector focuses on newly allocated objects, aiming to improve overall performance and battery life. Notably, default SMS, Assistant, Dialer apps, and companion apps of connected devices are exempt from any potential delays caused by this new feature.
The changes in Android 16 QPR-2 are largely additive and designed to minimize additional app testing. Google has also made the SDK version smaller, enabling faster development of new features with new platform APIs.
In terms of security, Android 16 QPR-2 includes a new feature that delays SMS-OTP delivery by three hours to prevent hijacking. This update also sees the introduction of new APIs for developer authentication, starting in autumn 2026. Only registered and verified applications will be installable, including for sideloading.
Users with the stable version Android 16 QPR-1 can upgrade to the new beta by registering their Pixel for the Android Beta program. Developers can still install apps without verification using ADB for testing purposes. However, Google expects the requirement that only applications from publishers registered with Google and signed with the corresponding application signature can be installed to take effect starting in 2024.
The first QPR-2 beta introduced automatically adapted app icons for a uniform home screen look. The QPR-2 Beta 2 now offers customizable app icons on the home screen, with five shape options available.
Google's Health Connect is updated to automatically count steps via device sensors. The data types "ExerciseSegment" and "ExerciseSession" have been updated in Android 16 QPR-2 to record and read weight, set index, and subjective perceived exertion (RPE) for training segments.
Developers with the "READ_STEPS" permission can access step data in the "android" package. A new ADB command also allows developers to simulate verification results for testing.
Google will release Android 16 QPR-2 in December, featuring a Pixel Drop for Pixel smartphones. The update allows developers to adapt their apps to the new version for use of the latest platform features.
In conclusion, Android 16 QPR-2 brings several exciting changes, focusing on performance improvements, enhanced security, and customization options. Users and developers alike are encouraged to participate in the beta testing to help shape the future of Android.
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