Google has recently rolled out Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3.1, marking the conclusion of the September Quarterly Platform Release (QPR). For Pixel users engaged with the Beta software who wish to revert to the stable version, the stable Android 16 QPR1 release offers a seamless exit without necessitating a software wipe. However, it appears that not all users who opted out received the stable update, despite its distribution by Google two weeks prior.
Pixel users stuck on Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3.1 might have to wait for the October security patch to be released
As the QPR1 Beta phase concluded, those who chose to remain in the Beta environment transitioned to the first Beta release for the upcoming December Quarterly Platform Release, known as Android 16 QPR2. This was the path I took with my Pixel 6 Pro. Users looking to exit the Beta program simply navigated to the Android 16 Beta Program website and clicked the Opt Out button, with the expectation of receiving the Android 16 QPR1 update to stabilize their devices without any data loss.
Unfortunately, those still operating on Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3.1 are encountering significant challenges, particularly with Google Wallet and VPN functionalities. The Pixel-exclusive VPN by Google fails to operate, displaying an error message indicating that the service “isn’t available for this account.” Similarly, attempts to access Google Wallet result in a notification stating, “Your device doesn’t meet security requirements. This device may be rooted or running uncertified software. Contact your device manufacturer or visit Google Wallet Help for more info.”
Some users have taken to Reddit to express their frustrations. One user noted, “Help, has anyone experienced this? I’m on beta 3.1 (BP31.2… opted out and waiting for the stable smh) and sometimes when I open Google Wallet a popup appears saying ‘Device doesn’t meet security requirements’; I can’t pay with Google Wallet nor with Google Pay.” Another user echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the inconvenience of being unable to access their wallet while on the go.
Some Pixel users still on QPR1 Beta 3.1 are having issues with Google Wallet and more
The predicament faced by affected Pixel users is quite serious. One user remarked, “Literally just did the same thing to me which made it very awkward since I keep my wallet in the car. If it doesn’t get fixed soon, I might have to go for the Data Wipe option.” Complaints have been particularly prevalent among users of the Pixel 9 series, who are also experiencing difficulties with Google Wallet and Google Pay.
For those unfamiliar with QPR updates, they are essentially the quarterly updates for Pixel devices, often referred to as “Pixel Feature Drops.” These updates introduce new features across all eligible Pixel models. The following devices are slated to receive Pixel Feature Drops this year:
- Pixel 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL (through August 2032)
- Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold, 9a (through August 2031)
- Pixel 8, 8 Pro, 8a (through October 2030)
- Pixel Fold (through June 2028)
- Pixel Tablet (through June 2028)
- Pixel 7, 7 Pro, 7a (2022 – 2023, until October 2027)
- Pixel 6 series (6, 6 Pro, 6a) (2021 – 2022, until October 2026)
With the recent rollout of QPR1 in September 2025, users are now looking ahead to QPR2, expected in December, and QPR3, anticipated in March 2026. Google introduced Android 16 in June, setting the stage for Android 17’s release next June, with eligible models likely to include the Pixel 6 series and newer.
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