Android

Android 15 QPR1 beta brings desktop mode to Pixel Tablet, settings redesign, and lock screen widgets and more

Published

9 months ago

September 13, 2024

Tom Carter

Key Points:

Desktop Windowing: Allows multiple apps to run in resizable windows, enhancing productivity on Pixel Tablets.
Settings Redesign: Streamlined organization with Material You updates for easier navigation.
Lock Screen Widgets: Brings back lock screen widgets, but only on Pixel Tablets.

Android 15 QPR1 Beta: New Features and Installation Guide for Pixel Devices

Google has introduced several new features with the Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2, focusing on improved multitasking and usability on Pixel devices, especially tablets. Let’s explore the key updates in this release and how to install the beta version on your device.

Desktop Windowing on Pixel Tablet

One of the major highlights is the new desktop windowing mode, now available in Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2 for Pixel Tablets. This feature allows users to resize app windows and run multiple apps simultaneously, giving a more desktop-like experience. You can pin apps on the taskbar, and each app window now has a customizable header bar with window controls. These controls let you switch between fullscreen and windowed modes with ease.

To enable this mode:

Go to Settings > System > Developer options.
Turn on Freeform Windows.

Once activated, you can adjust app windows by dragging a handle at the top of each app window, making multitasking even more flexible. The desktop windowing mode can be controlled through keyboard shortcuts for added convenience.

Settings Redesign with Material You

Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2 also brings a redesigned Settings app, improving organization and aesthetics. The new layout groups related preferences under visually distinct sections, helping users navigate more easily. The search bar has been revamped into a taller, pill-shaped design, and the app items are displayed in clear cards, making them easier to distinguish. These tweaks enhance the overall user experience while giving a fresh look.

Lock Screen Widgets Return (Tablet-Only)

Lock screen widgets, previously removed from Android versions, have made a comeback in Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2. These widgets are available by default on Pixel Tablets and allow users to add app widgets like Spotify, Google Clock, and Google Weather directly on the lock screen. Users can customize their lock screen widget panel without unlocking the device, although unlocking is required to access the full app.

Currently, this feature is exclusive to tablets, with no support for phones in this beta version.

How to Install Android 15 QPR1 Beta on Pixel Devices

The Android 15 QPR1 Beta is available for Pixel devices released since 2021, including Pixel 6, Pixel 7, and Pixel 8 series. You can install the beta via two methods:

OTA Update via the Android Beta Program:
- Visit google.com/android/beta and opt in with your Pixel device.
- After enrolling, check for the OTA update on your device and install it.
Manual Installation via Sideload:
- Download the Android 15 Beta OTA file for your specific device.
- Boot your device into Recovery Mode and navigate to ADB Sideload.
- Connect your phone to a computer with ADB tools and use the command adb sideload to install the update.
- Once completed, reboot your device.

Make sure to back up your data and enable OEM Unlocking before attempting a sideload.

Most people will be installing via the Android Beta Program, but you can also flash or sideload.

Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Factory Image — OTA
Pixel 9 Pro XL: Factory Image — OTA
Pixel 9 Pro: Factory Image — OTA
Pixel 9: Factory Image — OTA
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

Conclusion

With Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2, Google is enhancing the user experience with features like desktop windowing, a revamped settings app, and the return of lock screen widgets for tablets. These updates push Android closer to a more flexible, desktop-like environment, especially on larger devices like the Pixel Tablet.

For those interested in trying out these features, the beta is available now for Pixel devices. Be mindful, however, that these updates are still in beta, and you may encounter bugs or unfinished features.

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Android

Android 16 may let you see notifications and settings side by side

Published

3 days ago

May 29, 2025

Tom Carter

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

Published

6 days ago

May 26, 2025

Tom Carter

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

Published

1 week ago

May 24, 2025

Tom Carter

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.