Google releases the stable Android 16 QPR2 update along with the December 2025 security patch for many Pixel devices. The update expands the company’s new approach to Android development, which focuses on more frequent SDK releases instead of one major yearly upgrade.
This new model aims to deliver features as soon as they are ready. According to the company, the shift will help developers build better apps and provide users with a smoother experience. Google releases updates earlier under this system, with Android 16 getting its major release in June, followed by this new minor update.
One of the biggest changes in Android 16 QPR2 is the introduction of lockscreen widgets. These widgets appear when users swipe left on the lockscreen to reveal a new feed. A small tweak also updates the two-line clock, making it thicker with added haptic feedback. Users can enable widgets by navigating to Settings > Display & touch > Lock screen > Widgets on lock screen.
Customization is easy to manage. Long-pressing the screen allows users to add or resize widgets. They can also choose from “Featured” and “Browse” tabs in the updated picker. Although widgets appear without unlocking the phone, apps require authentication before opening.
The update also adds a new Notification Organizer. It groups low-priority alerts into sections such as News, Promotions, and Social Alerts. These categories appear at the bottom of the notification shade, with app icons neatly stacked on the right. Google releases this feature after introducing AI message summaries last month.
Users can now customize icon shapes through Wallpaper & style > Icons. New shapes include rounded squares and additional styles. Android 16 QPR2 also generates themed icons for all apps for a more consistent look.
The Pixel Launcher receives small visual improvements. Icons for the microphone, Lens, and AI Mode in the search bar now appear larger with more vibrant Dynamic Color.
In Settings, Live Caption is now available at the bottom of the volume slider for quicker access. There are also more Material 3 Expressive elements across different sections of the system, including Notification history and Security & privacy.
Android 16 QPR2 adds more tools for parents by separating Parental controls from Digital Wellbeing. It introduces Enhanced HDR brightness under Display & touch, offering an adjustable intensity slider. The expanded dark theme now applies to most apps automatically, even if they do not support dark mode. Health Connect can now record step counts directly from the device.
To install the update, users can check Settings > System > System Update and tap “Check for update.” Those on the beta version will receive a small patch to move to stable. Google releases this update for a wide list of Pixel devices, including Pixel 6 through Pixel 10 series, as well as Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet.
The update marks another step in Google’s plan to deliver faster and more polished Android improvements throughout the year.
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