It’s a big day for Android fans: Google has released the next major milestone release of Android 16 and the September Pixel Drop.
Android 16 Quarterly Platform Release 1 (QPR1) is the first major update to Android 16, which Google released back in June. This adds the following new features:
Material 3 Expressive. Available now on 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, Material 3 Expressive is a user interface design overall with major changes to the lock screen, quick settings, and, on Pixel devices, the Pixel launcher. (The Pixel 10, 10 Pro, and 10 Pro XL shipped with this update preinstalled last week.)
Audio sharing. You can pair two Bluetooth LE Audio devices to your phone and share the audio with another person. “You can both enjoy music, movies, podcasts and more,” Google notes. “Whether the two of you are sitting in a cafe, waiting at an airport or commuting on the train, stay in sync and listen together.” You can also optionally begin sharing using a QR code, or create a private broadcast and invite another to join.
Quick share improvements. Quick share has been redesigned with a send and receive toggle, photo previews, live progress updates, and the ability to open received files immediately.
AI-powered suggestions in Gboard. Android’s stock virtual keyboard now offers on-device AI-powered writing tools via its toolbar, with grammar and typo checking and writing style modifications.
Emoji Kitchen updates. Emoji Kitchen has been updated with a new browsing experience, the ability to save favorites, and customized suggestions.
If you have a supported Pixel device, you will also receive additional updates via a new Pixel Drop.
“This will make your Pixel feel even more personal and premium,” Pixel senior director Shenaz Zack says. “You can use Live effects to add fun animations to your lock screen’s wallpaper, such as adding shapes and weather effects. Enjoy a sleek redesign for your most-used Quick Settings. Plus, you can customize your Phone by Google experience for calling contacts that’s unique to your personal style.”
Pixel Buds Pro 2 users will gain Adaptive Audio soon, with a Loud Noise Protection feature to protect your hearing, Gemini capabilities, and the ability to accept incoming calls or dismiss replying to a text by nodding or shaking your head.
Pixel Watch users can now start walking or biking activities on their phone and Google Maps will appear automatically on the watch with hands-free guidance.
You can learn more about the new Pixel Drop on the Google Store.