Google unexpectedly began beta testing its quarterly feature drops last month, most likely as a result of repeated faulty software rollouts on the Google Pixel 6 series. Android 12 QPR3 Beta 2 is now available for download on all compatible Google Pixel handsets, following the release of the April security updates. It comes as Android 13 Beta 1 is likely to be released soon.
According to Google, the following issues have been resolved:
- On select devices, issues that created a high pitch noise during phone conversations have been resolved. (Problem #224716473)
- On some devices, the bottom of the Google Maps UI was cut off at the bottom of the screen due to a bug. (Problem #223688137)
- Fixed an issue that caused the Google Messages app to occasionally fail to send a message obtained by scanning a QR code.
- The Google Phone app no longer crashed when using the back gesture while searching.
- Google also claims that the following issues are known and do not need the submission of a bug report.
- In rare circumstances, the Google Camera app icon in a device's personal profile displays a work profile indicator incorrectly.
- When launching the NHS COVID-19 app, a keystore issue can cause the app to crash.
Users should be aware that when beta testing Android versions, there may be difficulties with stability, performance, or battery life. Some apps, including Google's own, may also fail to perform as intended. Finally, there's no assurance that the build will be CTS-approved, which means that applications like Google Pay may not operate.
Google is currently maintaining three release channels for Pixels, at least for the time being. There's the standard stable OS (now Android 12L/12.1), QPR betas (which are now testing the June Feature Drop), and Developer Previews (now Android 13). This closely corresponds to Chrome's release channels.
The Pixel 4, 4a, 5, 5a, 6, and 6 Pro have received an update with build number S3B1.220218.006.
