Android enthusiasts can now rejoice as Google has rolled out the Android 17 QPR3 Beta 1, available for Pixel testers. This latest firmware update extends support from the Pixel 6a all the way through the Pixel 11 series, with most devices receiving build DP11.260918.006, while the Pixel 11 family members will utilize DP11.260918.005.
Bug Fixes and Improvements
This initial preview release is primarily focused on addressing a range of bugs that have been reported by users. The list of fixes includes:
- Issues with audio output device switching during playback from apps lacking active media controls.
- Crashes occurring when starting a foreground service from Quick Settings tiles.
- Excessive spacing in application icons within the app menu.
- Failures in displaying app previews on the recent apps screen.
- Crashes in NFC services after the initial scan.
- Device freezes upon unlocking with the fingerprint sensor.
- Crashes when selecting the option requiring eyes to be open in Face Unlock settings.
- MediaPlayer crashes related to non-ASCII audio attribute tags.
- Application freezes triggering ANR errors upon launch.
- Camera feed rotation issues during video calls on external displays.
- User interface glitches when returning to the home screen from apps.
- Unexpected dots appearing on the Mobile Data icon in Quick Settings.
- Front camera malfunctions during active screen recording.
- Crashes in calling apps immediately after device reboot.
- eSIM profile issues reverting to off in Settings.
- Excessive battery drain when Flip to Shh is enabled.
- Crashes in the Settings app when accessing battery settings.
- Audio playback interruptions on Bluetooth devices upon disconnection of a second device.
- Loss of cellular service due to modem reporting unexpected SIM slot indices.
- Wi-Fi connectivity failures during background wakes.
For those eager to explore the beta experience, registration is available through Google’s Android Beta for Pixel program. However, it is advisable to back up data securely before diving into this testing phase.
Conversely, if users wish to revert to a stable version of Android, they can unenroll from the program and refrain from installing the QPR3 Beta. This will allow for a smooth transition back to a stable build when QPR2 is officially released.
As we begin to explore the new features of QPR3, preliminary findings suggest intriguing developments. Notably, there are indications that connected gamepads may soon be able to control Android’s cursor, enhancing user interaction. Strings related to this feature hint at a more integrated gaming experience:
<string name="gamepadmousetitle">Gamepad mouse <string name="gamepadmousesummary">Use a connected gamepad to control the cursor
Additionally, there appears to be significant work underway regarding phone unlock support, potentially linked to a new feature dubbed “Googlebook.” The strings discovered suggest a seamless integration of phone unlocking capabilities:
<string name="cdtunlocktitle">Phone <string name="cdtunlockintro_text">Use your phone to unlock this device.
As we continue to delve into the beta, we will keep the community updated on any further discoveries and enhancements that emerge from this exciting phase of Android development.
