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Google Starts Android 16 QPR1 Rollout, Extends Material 3 Expressive to Older Pixels

Google is using the September Pixel Drop to unify the lineup’s look under Material 3 Expressive.

Overview

  • The update begins rolling out to Pixel 6 and newer phones and the Pixel Tablet today in a phased release that will continue over the next few weeks.
  • Material 3 Expressive adds Live effects on the lock screen, a revamped Quick Settings layout, and customizable calling screens in the Phone app.
  • Gboard’s on‑device AI writing tools expand beyond Pixel 10, and Android’s Quick Share gains a dedicated interface with clearer send/receive controls and progress indicators.
  • Wearable and audio upgrades include Google Maps auto‑displaying walking or biking navigation on Pixel Watch, plus Pixel Buds Pro 2 features such as Adaptive Audio, Loud Noise Protection, and nod/shake call gestures arriving later this month.
  • Google’s September 2025 security update is live with fixes across the lineup, including a Pixel 10 display issue and camera stability improvements for Pixel 8 and 9, while a subset of Pixel 10 devices has already received a small day‑one OTA with the September patch.