Google has released Android 16 QPR2 Beta 2, the latest update for the Android Quarterly Platform Release that will be known as the December Pixel Feature Drop. If you're subscribed to the Android 16 QPR Beta Program, you should be able to install the latest release by going to Settings > System > Software updates > System update. The update also comes with the September 5, 2025 Android security update.
This is the biggest change arriving with the Android 16 QPR2 Beta 2 update
Perhaps the biggest change with the update is the addition of the Themed icon shapes. Go to Settings > Wallpaper & style > Icons and you'll see five different shapes that you can choose from for your app icons. They are:
Circle (default)
Square
Four-sided "cookie"
Seven-sided "cookie"
Arch
Go to Settings > Display & touch and you'll see that the page has received its Material 3 Expressive makeover. Additionally, a big change has been made to Health Connect. Previously a data hub that helped health and fitness apps share data with each other, Health Connect now will automatically count your steps using the phone's sensors.
Android 16 QPR2 Beta 2 reaches Platform Stability
Google notes that Android 16 QPR2 Beta 2 has reached Platform Stability, which means that app developers can focus on testing their apps and cleaning up their final designs. Developers can prepare for the final release of their apps without worrying about having to deal with any last-minute changes.
The biggest addition to this update is the new themed icon shapes. | Image credit-PhoneArena
The update is build number BP41.250822.010. Google explained in the Release Notes that a new requirement called Android developer verification is designed to link people or organizations with their Android applications. This will make it harder for malicious actors to disseminate malware, financial fraud, impersonation, or other harmful apps by being anonymous.
Looking forward to the December Pixel Feature Drop?
Yes. I like the Custom App Icon Shapes.
33.33%
No. I don't see anything that interesting.
33.33%
I don't know yet.
33.33%
Starting in September 2026 and in specific regions, Android will require apps to be registered by verified developers to be installed on certified Android devices, with an exception made for installs made through the Android Debug Bridge (ADB).
"Iconic Phones" is coming this Fall!
Good news everyone! Over the past year we've been working on an exciting passion project of ours and we're thrilled to announce it will be ready to release in just a few short months.
"Iconic Phones: Revolution at Your Fingertips" is a must-have coffee table book for every tech-head that will bring you on a journey to relive the greatest technological revolution of the 21st century. For more details, simply follow the link below!
Alan, an ardent smartphone enthusiast and a veteran writer at PhoneArena since 2009, has witnessed and chronicled the transformative years of mobile technology. Owning iconic phones from the original iPhone to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, he has seen smartphones evolve into a global phenomenon. Beyond smartphones, Alan has covered the emergence of tablets, smartwatches, and smart speakers.
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