Google Pixel devices now have access to Android 14 QPR1 beta

Along with the Pixel 8 series of smartphones, Google is expected to release the stable version of Android 14 next month. The tech giant has rolled out the first Quarterly Platform Release beta (QPR1) of Android 14 to Pixel phones while we wait for the Pixel hardware launch on October 4. Three months after its initial distribution, the Android 14 QPR1 Beta 1 is anticipated to get a stable release if past Google updates are any indicator. According to reports, the most recent update will increase the Pixel phones’ battery charge cycle count.

A sample of what will be included in the upcoming Pixel Feature Drop update is available in the Android 14 QPR1 beta. The build involves the September 2023 security patch and has version number U1B1.230908.003. To those who have signed up for the Android Beta Program, this update is currently going out. Numerous bug fixes as well as enhancements to stability and performance are mentioned in the release notes.

The most recent update is available to Google Pixel 5a, Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet users in the beta program. By going to Settings > System > Software update, users can manually check for the update and download the latest software. The Pixel 5 and older Pixel 4a 5G models are not on the list to get this upgrade.

Since this is a beta update, Google is cautioning users that switching SIM cards could result in a loss of cellular connectivity and that the battery level might momentarily display as 0% in the status bar.

In addition to the usual charge level and usage statistics, the Android 14 QPR1 beta adds the ability to view extra battery metrics in the Settings. On Google Pixel handsets, a new “Battery Information” section is reportedly going to reveal information such as the battery’s manufacturing date and the number of charge cycles. Go to Settings > About Phone > “Battery Information” to get this.

Google typically releases a significant OS upgrade once per year, followed by QPR1, QPR2, and QPR3 updates. If the firm continues down this path, the December 2023 Pixel Feature Drop is expected to be the first Quarterly Platform Release for Android 14 in the following three months.