How to install Android 16 Beta on Pixel phones and explore new Material 3 redesign

Google has launched the Android 16 QPR1 Beta, bringing a major redesign to Pixel devices. Here’s how to install and try the new look now.

Google has started rolling out the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1, introducing the new Material 3 Expressive redesign to several Pixel devices. This release brings a fresh look to the operating system’s interface, including updates to the lock screen, Quick Settings, and other parts of the user experience. Although the full stable version of Android 16 is not yet available, this beta offers an early glimpse of the upcoming visual changes.

Google has rolled out Android 16 QPR1 Beta with a new Material 3 design for supported Pixel devices. (Bloomberg)

By MD Ijaj Khan

Ijaj Khan is a technology journalist and Senior Content Producer at Hindustan Times, with over three years of experience covering the consumer technology industry. His work spans smartphones, laptops, wearables, gaming, appliances and AI - from hands-on reviews, comparison and buying guides to breaking news and in-depth features that help readers cut through the noise and make informed decisions. Before joining HT Tech, he worked with Jagran New Media, where he sharpened his instincts for fast-paced digital reporting. He holds a Post Graduate Diploma in English Journalism and Mass Communication from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Delhi. Whether he's testing the latest flagship smartphone, tracking a major AI announcement, or putting a gaming laptop through its paces, Ijaj approaches every story with the same goal - making technology feel relevant and easy to understand for everyday users, not just enthusiasts. When he's not in front of a screen for work, he's usually travelling to a new city, hunting for great food, or keeping tabs on what's next in tech before everyone else catches on.

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The Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 focuses mainly on design updates rather than feature additions. The Material 3 Expressive design brings a consistent new style across the entire system. Users can expect a changed lock screen, a redesigned Quick Settings panel, and a broader implementation of the new design language that Google has been working on for months.

Android 16 Beta Update: List of Supported Pixel Devices

Currently, the beta supports Pixel devices equipped with the Tensor chip. The eligible devices include:

• Google Pixel 6
• Pixel 6 Pro
• Pixel 6a
• Pixel 7
• Pixel 7 Pro
• Pixel 7a
• Pixel Tablet
• Pixel Fold
• Pixel 8
• Pixel 8 Pro
• Pixel 8a
• Pixel 9
• Pixel 9 Pro
• Pixel 9 Pro XL
• Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Pixel 9a.

How to Install on Pixel Phones

To install Android 16 QPR1 Beta on a compatible Pixel device, users need to join the Android Beta Program. This can be done by visiting google.com/android/beta and opting in with the Google account linked to the device. Once enrolled, the device will receive an update notification, usually within an hour, though it may sometimes take longer. After downloading and installing the update, users can explore the new design elements of Android 16 ahead of the official stable release.

This beta release offers Pixel owners a chance to experience Google's latest redesign before it reaches the wider public. Users interested in testing the update should ensure their devices are eligible and back up any important data before proceeding.