A couple of days ago Google inaugurated a new beta testing program for its Pixel smartphones, relating exclusively to the so-called Quarterly Platform Releases or QPR – in other words, the Feature Drops, through which the company brings new functionalities and features to its smartphones. supported.
The first Beta build, formally QPR3 Beta 1 or S3B1, was made available immediately; even on the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro, although they have not yet received the March one in the stable channel. A potentially very annoying bug has emerged on the last two Google flagships: a very loud “beep” that lasts around 2-3 seconds at a time while on a call.
This is beta software, and although Google claims that the builds are suitable for everyday use, some hitches must still be taken into consideration; the good news is that apparently it’s relatively easy to get around this, at least temporarily – just turn speakerphone on / off. It is also a good idea to avoid keeping the volume too high because according to user reports the tone is at rather annoying levels. In short, if you want to try the build you know what to expect.
Having said that, there is not much news. Google only reports generic user experience and stability improvements, without going into too much detail. The initial feedbacks report an increase in fluidity and a whole series of minor refinements and bug fixes, which make a difference for those who are attentive to details.
It is worth noting that the build is not available for the Pixel 3a and 3a XL, which are sadly now also nearing the end of software support. The official expiration date was set at the time of May 2022, just one month before the release of the Feature Drop object of this round of beta. And it seems that Google has no intention of making exceptions.
The new Beta will arrive automatically to those who had previously signed up for the Android 12L Beta program, alternatively, it is possible to register from the dedicated site. It may take up to a day for the OTA update to actually arrive. Users are usually invited to report bugs and other problems through the integrated Android Beta Feedback app or through the appropriate section on Reddit (just follow the SOURCE link).