Overview
- Android 16 is projected to have its stable release in June. Prior to this, Google will initiate a beta program for Android 16 QPR1, featuring the much-anticipated Material 3 Expressive design update.
- The recent release of Android 16 Beta 4.1 serves as a bug-fixing update and does not incorporate the Material 3 Expressive features. This version is intended for the forthcoming stable release in June.
- The Android 16 Beta 4.1 update addresses several issues, including enhancements to haptic feedback, video recording functionality, and battery performance. It is currently available for participating Pixel devices.
Google officially unveiled Android 16 during a special I/O edition of The Android Show, marking the start of a new era with lively animations driven by Material 3 Expressive. The stable version is slated for a June release, followed by a new beta program for Android 16 QPR1, where the new design elements are expected to debut.
Anticipation grew as new factory images and OTA updates were spotted on Google’s servers. However, these updates turned out to be for Android 16 Beta 4.1, a bug-fix release separate from the upcoming Expressive-rich version set for stable release in a few weeks.
The new release, identified by the build number BP22.250325.012, focuses on polishing the overall user experience. The included fixes hint at a nearing stable version, expected next month.
Android 16 Beta 4.1 (May 2025)
This update encompasses several key fixes.
Eligible devices enrolled in the Android Beta for Pixel program will receive an OTA update for Beta 4.1.
As Google introduces the beta program for Android 16’s first Quarterly Platform Release (QPR1), transitioning back to stable versions might become complex for users. When the QPR1 beta becomes available, users in the beta program will have the opportunity to switch to this newer version. To revert to stable builds, opting out of the beta program is necessary, which may involve declining further updates until the official Android 16 stable release in July.
Importantly, the recent update is not part of the Android 16 QPR1 beta; therefore, it is safe for users to install, regardless of future plans regarding beta participation.
The rollout of Android 16 Beta 4.1 is underway for Pixel 6 and later models enrolled in the Android Beta Program. Users can check for the update under Settings → System → Software updates → System update, and it may take a few days to be fully accessible.
Weighing in at around 50MB, this minor update is a promising indication for the upcoming stable rollout of Android 16 and the anticipated QPR1 beta program complete with its Material 3 Expressive elements.
