Android
Android 15 Beta 4.2 released for Pixel 9 series; Google begins rolling out Android 15 QPR1 Beta 1

Key Points:
- New Update for Pixel 9: Android 15 Beta 4.2 is now available for the Pixel 9 series, ahead of its official release.
- QPR1 Beta 1 Launch: Google has rolled out Android 15 QPR1 Beta 1 for multiple Pixel devices, including older models.
- Upgrade Instructions: Users in the Beta Program will receive the update automatically, with options to opt out of the stable version.
Google has started releasing Android 15 Beta 4.2 for the Pixel 9 series, including the Pixel 9, 9 Pro, and 9 Pro XL. This update serves as the final patch before the official launch of Android 15. You can now download the OTA images directly, although they aren’t yet available on the official Android Beta website.
The Pixel 9 series, which was expected to launch with Android 15, still runs Android 14 out of the box. However, some Android 15 features, like the redesigned screenshot UI, have been backported to Android 14 for these devices. Android 15 is expected to be released for the Pixel 9 and other devices in the coming weeks.
In addition to this, Google has rolled out the Android 15 QPR1 Beta 1 to a range of Pixel devices, including older models like the Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 series, as well as the Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold. Quarterly Platform Releases (QPRs) are more significant updates than the usual monthly bug fixes. They include new UI tweaks and features that don’t require waiting for the next major Android release. Android 15 QPR1 is expected to officially launch in December.
If you’re part of the Android Beta Program, you’ll receive QPR1 Beta 1 automatically. However, if you prefer to get the final stable Android 15 release first, you should opt-out of the Beta Program before installing QPR1 Beta 1. If you do so, you’ll receive a downgrade OTA notification, which will install Android 14. To avoid wiping your device, ignore this update until Google announces the official Android 15 release.
For those interested in providing feedback, the Android Beta Feedback app is available on Pixel devices. You can use it to report any issues directly to Google. Additionally, there’s an active Android Beta community on Reddit where users can share their experiences and troubleshooting tips.
With these updates, Google continues to enhance the Android experience, ensuring that users on both the latest and older Pixel devices have access to new features and improvements ahead of the official Android 15 release.
Most people will be installing via the Android Beta Program, but you can also flash or sideload.
- Pixel 8a: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel 8 Pro: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel 8: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel Fold: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel Tablet: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel 7a: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel 7 Pro: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel 7: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel 6a: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel 6 Pro: Factory Image — OTA
- Pixel 6: Factory Image — OTA
Android
Android 16 may let you see notifications and settings side by side

A new leak shows that the next big update to Android, called Android 16, might change how you look at your phone’s alerts and controls. Right now, when you pull down the top of your screen, you see either your notifications or the quick settings panel, but not both at the same time. The leak suggests Android 16 could let you see both together, side by side, when you swipe down from the top.
This new look would be helpful for people who want to check their messages and change settings quickly. It would mean less swiping and more info at a glance. The leak comes from someone who looks at Android’s code and shares new features before they are officially announced. The images in the leak show a split view, with notifications on one side and quick settings on the other.
This idea is still in testing, so it might not make it to the final version of Android 16. But if it does, it could make using your phone a bit easier and faster. The update is expected to come out later this year, and more details will be shared as we get closer to the launch. For now, this leak gives us a peek at what might be coming next for Android phones.
Android
Android Automotive now lets you use video and audio apps more easily

Google has made it easier for people to use video and audio apps in cars that run Android Automotive. Now, car makers can let drivers and passengers use more types of media apps, making car rides more fun and useful.
Before, Android Automotive only allowed certain apps for music, podcasts, and radio. With the new updates, car makers can now add video apps like YouTube and other streaming services. This means you can watch videos when the car is parked, such as while charging an electric vehicle or waiting for someone. Google is also letting more audio apps work in cars, so you can listen to audiobooks, news, and other audio content.
To keep everyone safe, video apps will only work when the car is not moving. Audio apps, on the other hand, can be used while driving, as long as they don’t distract the driver. Google is working closely with car companies to make sure these apps run smoothly and safely.
These changes are part of Google’s plan to make Android Automotive a better system for both drivers and passengers. By adding more ways to enjoy music, videos, and other content, car rides can be more entertaining and comfortable for everyone.
Android
Android Auto gets better music and podcast apps after Google IO 2025

Google recently announced some big improvements to Android Auto at Google I/O 2025, especially for people who use music and podcast apps in their cars. These changes are meant to make it easier and safer to listen to your favorite songs and shows while driving.
Now, media apps on Android Auto will look and work more like the apps on your phone. For example, you’ll see bigger album covers, better controls, and more helpful information on the screen. If you use apps like Spotify, YouTube Music, or Audible, you’ll notice that it’s simpler to find and play what you want.
Another cool update is that Android Auto will now show suggestions for things you might want to listen to next, based on your habits. This means you can spend less time searching and more time enjoying your drive.
Google also made it easier for app developers to update their apps for Android Auto. This should mean more apps get these new features soon.
Overall, these updates are designed to make listening to music and podcasts in your car smoother and more enjoyable, so you can focus on the road and have a better driving experience.
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