Pixel, Android 15 QPR2

Pixel phones are getting two major security upgrades to protect you from scammers
Google has started rolling out Live Scam Detection to the Pixel Phone app, while an upgraded version of the Play Protect system will help detect and report any scammy Google Play apps in real time. However only the latter will be making its way to non Pixel phones, as far as we know.
Pixel phones get a major kernel upgrade with Android 15 QPR2
Google is preparing to upgrade the kernel version of all Tensor-powered Pixels to Linux 6.1 in Android 15 QPR2.
Android 15 QPR2 brings the Pixel 9's new Linux kernel to all Tensor-powered phones and tablets
Google is updating the Android Linux kernel to 6.1.99 for all Tensor-powered Pixel devices, including the Pixel 6 series. Linux 6.1 was spotted as part of the Android 15 QPR 15 Beta 1 release, and will release with the stable March Pixel Feature Drop. Kernel updates are essential for device security and compatibility with future Android releases.
Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1 starts for enrolled Pixels
Google highlighted the start of Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1 to Pixel testers on Reddit. The update contains the November security patch and a list of known issues users may encounter. The QPR2 update is expected to arrive as the March 2025 feature drop while we brace for a much earlier Android 16 launch.
Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1 is ready to install on your Pixel phone
Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1 arrived earlier today as a Generic System Image. Builds are now out for Pixel devices, from the Pixel 6 up to present. Installing one will register your device with the Beta for Pixel program.
Custom icon shapes might return to Pixel phones with Android 16
Custom icon shapes for Pixel phones were spotted in the latest Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1 update and posted on the Telegram channel Google News. This is a beloved feature Google removed way back with Android 12, along with custom status bar icons and fonts. At least one of those things is coming back, although there appears to be a limit.
PC Magazine24m
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The Pixel 9 is truly for the people | Android Police Podcast
Google and assorted market watchers are implying that the Pixel 9 may be the phone to resonate with the most buyers yet.