Google has recently released Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1.1, but notably, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is absent from the list of eligible devices for this update. This beta release is a minor iteration focused primarily on resolving user interface issues, and it comes after the introduction of the first Android 16 QPR1 beta in mid-May. The initial beta showcased the new Material 3 Expressive design for the first time on compatible Pixel devices. Today’s update, Beta 1.1, offers numerous bug fixes related to the Expressive redesign but is surprisingly unavailable for the Pixel 9 Pro XL.
Users have reported that they cannot see the over-the-air (OTA) update, with some Pixel 9 Pro XL owners on Reddit confirming a lack of access to the new build. Additionally, both factory and OTA images for the update are missing from Google’s factory image website. This suggests that the exclusion of the Pixel 9 Pro XL may not be an oversight but rather a deliberate decision by Google. The company has not listed the Pixel 9 Pro XL among the eligible devices for Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1.1, which includes every other Pixel, from the Pixel 6 to the Pixel Tablet.
It is possible that Google encountered issues with the device’s BP31.250502.008.A1 build, prompting the delay. The update, albeit small at only 6.5-8MB, suggests there may have been significant challenges that necessitated this action. For the current beta, Google’s release notes highlight a focus on fixing bugs related to the Expressive design. Issues resolved include unresponsive navigation buttons and crashes when accessing the effects panel in wallpapers.
For those already on the QPR beta, upgrading to this latest build is recommended for an enhanced experience. However, the timeline for a stable Android 16 release remains unclear, with speculations about a June 3 rollout now expired.
Leave a Reply