Google confirms the return of Android 16 QPR2 Beta 3 (Update: It’s back)

Updated: October 20, 2025 (6:15 p.m. ET): Google has started rolling out a new version of Android 16 QPR2 Beta 3.1 which fixes the desktop mode issue.

Original article: October 20, 2025 (1:49 p.m. 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 unable to. Indeed, shortly after the company released the update, it appeared that the beta version had been pulled. If you’ve been looking forward to this update, you won’t have to wait much longer to get on board.

To recall, the third beta of Android 16 QPR2 offers a long list of fixes for issues like failure to install Google Play system updates and low battery life due to excessive CPU usage by the launcher. You can check the changelog for other fixes in our release article. However, this update also had a bug that led to bootlooping issues caused by desktop mode.

Shortly after the update was released, users discovered that they were no longer able to download and install QPR2 Beta 3. When trying to check for available updates, users received a message that their device was up to date. Although no announcement was made, it was clear that the company had likely paused the rollout.

After this situation happened, Android Authority contacted Google for comment. A Google spokesperson confirmed to us that Android 16 QPR2 Beta 3 will be available again this week.

Unfortunately, the spokesperson did not give a specific date. So we don’t know when the update will reappear this week. At least it looks like we won’t have to wait that long.