Google Releases Android 16 QPR2 with December 2025 Security Update for Pixel Devices
Google has officially rolled out the stable version of Android 16 QPR2, accompanied by the December 2025 security patch, to a wide range of Pixel devices. This update is available for the following models:
– Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a
– Pixel 7, 7 Pro, 7a
– Pixel 8, 8 Pro, 8a
– Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold, 9a
– Pixel 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL, 10 Pro Fold
– Pixel Tablet
– Pixel Fold
This release marks a significant shift in Google’s update strategy. In late 2024, the company announced a move towards more frequent SDK releases to foster faster innovation in apps and devices, ensuring higher stability and polish for users and developers. Android 16’s major release occurred in June, and the current QPR2 update serves as a minor release under this new framework. This approach signifies a departure from the traditional annual operating system updates, aiming to deliver the latest features to users as soon as they are ready.
Key Features and Enhancements in Android 16 QPR2:
1. Lockscreen Widgets:
– Users can now access a new feed of widgets by swiping left on the lockscreen.
– To enable this feature, navigate to Settings > Display & touch > Lock screen > Widgets on lock screen.
– While these widgets are visible without unlocking the device, authentication is required to open associated apps.
– Customization is straightforward: long-press the screen to add, remove, or resize widgets.
2. Notification Organizer:
– This feature groups lower-priority notifications into categories such as News, Promotions, and Social Alerts, which appear at the bottom of the notification shade.
– When minimized, app icons are stacked on the right for a cleaner interface.
3. Custom Icon Shapes:
– Users can now choose from multiple icon shapes, including rounded squares, to personalize their home screen.
– This customization is accessible via Wallpaper & style > Icons.
– The update also introduces Themed icons, generating consistent designs for all apps.
4. Pixel Launcher Enhancements:
– Long-pressing an app icon now displays a menu with Remove and a ‘+’ button, facilitating quicker addition of shortcuts to the home screen.
– The Pixel Launcher search bar has received subtle refinements for improved usability.
This update underscores Google’s commitment to delivering timely and meaningful enhancements to the Android ecosystem, ensuring that Pixel users have access to the latest features and security improvements.
