Android 16 QPR2 Beta 3 Update Re-Released After Desktop Mode Bug Fix
Google has re-released the Android 16 QPR2 Beta 3 update to eligible Pixel devices after temporarily pausing the rollout due to a bug causing system UI crashes when desktop mode was enabled.
Yesterday, the company confirmed to Android Authority that the update would be available again this week, and a new QPR2 Beta 3.1 build began rolling out today at 6:15 PM ET. The initial Beta 3 release, which included fixes for issues like failed Google Play System updates and excessive CPU usage, was halted shortly after its release last week when users reported the desktop mode issue and found update searches indicated their devices were already current.
The bug caused system instability when users activated desktop mode, a feature that allows a smartphone to offer a more desktop-like experience when connected to an external display. This update is crucial for developers and early adopters testing the latest Android features ahead of the official release, as it provides a more stable platform for app compatibility testing. A spokesperson for Google did not provide a specific date for the re-release, but confirmed the issue has now been resolved.
Users can find more information about the Android Beta Program and its benefits on the Android Beta Program website. Google encourages users experiencing issues to report them through the official feedback channels.
Google officials stated they will continue to monitor the rollout and address any further issues that may arise.
Mishaal Rahman / Android Authority
TL;DR
- Google recently halted the roll out of Android 16 QPR2 Beta 3 due to a bug that caused system UI to crash when desktop mode was enabled.
- Google confirmed to Android Authority that the rollout will resume this week.
- A few hours after issuing their statement, Google began rolling out a new QPR2 Beta 3.1 release that fixed the issue.
Update: October 20, 2025 (6:15PM ET): Google has started to roll out a new Android 16 QPR2 Beta 3.1 build that fixes the issue with Desktop Mode.
Original article: October 20, 2025 (1:49PM ET): Last week, Google released Android 16 QPR2 Beta 3 for eligible Pixel devices. While some users were able to install the update, others were not. That’s because shortly after the company released the update, it appeared the beta was pulled. If you were looking forward to this update, you won’t have to wait that much longer to jump on board.
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As a refresher, the third beta of Android 16 QPR2 offers a long list of fixes for issues like Google Play System updates failing to install and poor battery life due to excessive CPU usage by the launcher. You can take a look at the changelog for the other fixes in our article about the release. However, this update also featured a bug that led to bootlooping issues caused by desktop mode.
Not long after the update was released, users discovered that they were no longer able to download and install QPR2 Beta 3. When attempting to search for available updates, users would get a message that their device was up-to-date. Although an announcement was never made, it was clear that the company likely halted the rollout.
After this situation occured, Android Authority reached out to Google for comment. A Google spokesperson has now confirmed to us that Android 16 QPR2 Beta 3 will be available again sometime this week.
Unfortunately, the spokesperson did not offer an exact date. So it’s unclear when the update will reappear this week. At least it looks like we won’t have to wait all that long.
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