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What you need to know
Google has initiated the rollout of the Android 16 Beta 2.1 patch for eligible Pixel devices, addressing several bugs that have surfaced in the Android 16 Beta environment. The update aims to resolve issues that have caused some Pixel phones to reboot without warning, enhancing overall user experience. This update is available as an over-the-air (OTA) option for devices enrolled in the Android Beta Program.
Two weeks ago, Google introduced the second beta of Android 16 to testers within the Beta Program. Now, the company is following it with a minor patch, Android 16 Beta 2.1, designed to rectify the most significant issues reported by users. This patch supports devices starting with the Pixel 6 series and newer, qualifying under the Android Beta Program, as described in the update’s release notes.
As with any pre-release software, certain bugs and glitches can occur; however, the issues addressed in Android 16 Beta 2.1 have been particularly disruptive. Among these, one problem led to unexpected device reboots, while another prevented devices from entering Doze mode correctly. The update also aims to smooth out jarring animations and resolve multiple other issues that could affect device performance and stability.
The official release notes from Google detail the modifications made:
- Fixed a problem that occasionally blocked devices from entering Doze mode. (Issue #396603519)
- Rectified issues that resulted in choppy animations when setting up live wallpapers. (Issue #397659072)
- Resolved an issue that sometimes caused devices to reboot unexpectedly. (Issue #396541565)
- Addressed various other issues impacting system stability, connectivity, and performance.
The swift action taken by Google to rectify bugs in the Android 16 beta signals that the update process is on track. The company is expected to reach platform stability for Android 16 by next month, with a full release planned for the second quarter of this year. The second beta version was made available on February 13, incorporating updates related to media, camera functionality, graphics, and alterations in user behavior.
As Android 16 progresses into the public beta stage, receiving updates like Android 16 Beta 2.1 becomes simpler. Users who have enrolled their compatible Pixel devices—specifically those from the Pixel 6 series onward—in the Android Beta Program will automatically receive the Android 16 Beta 2.1 update OTA once it is released.
Although there’s no precise timeline for when the Android 16 Beta 2.1 OTA will reach eligible devices, it is anticipated to be available shortly for those enrolled. To verify whether the update is accessible, users can navigate to the Settings app and select the System updates option. For those interested in exploring Android 16 Beta 2, enrollment in the Android Beta Program for supported Google Pixel devices can be done here.
Source
www.androidcentral.com