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Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3 is now rolling out to supported Google Pixel devices, bringing another important step toward the next major Android 17 quarterly update. Released on August 14, 2026, Beta 3 focuses on security, stability and system improvements, while also introducing several changes that Pixel users have been waiting for.
Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3 Released
Google has released Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3 with builds CP41.260731.005.A2 and CP41.260731.005.B1. The update carries the August 5, 2026 security patch level and Google Play services version 26.26.34.
Unlike a completely new Android version, QPR updates are designed to deliver improvements and new features between major platform releases. Google says Android 17 QPR2 includes a minor SDK release without planned behavior changes, making it a relatively low-impact update for app compatibility.
Major Security Upgrade: Protection Against Call-Forwarding Scams
One of the most important changes in Beta 3 is a new security system designed to protect users from call-forwarding fraud.
Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3 restricts how apps can programmatically execute call-forwarding USSD codes. Apps relying only on the CALL_PHONE permission can no longer use the relevant API to silently execute call-forwarding codes in the background.
Google has also added an OS-level confirmation dialog when users manually enter call-forwarding codes through the system dialer. This is designed to make it harder for scammers to trick users into unknowingly forwarding their calls.
Importantly, ordinary non-call-forwarding USSD functions, such as mobile-money transfers and account checks, are not affected by this particular restriction.
More Pixel Customization
Beta 3 also expands the customization options available on Pixel devices. Reports following the release highlight broader Dynamic Color theming, more Quick Settings customization and additional visual refinements.
Users can get more control over how their Quick Settings panel is arranged, giving the interface a more personalized feel.
Native App Lock Arrives
One of the most interesting additions discovered in the update is a native App Lock feature.
On supported Pixel devices running Beta 3, users can long-press an app icon and access an App Lock option. This provides another layer of privacy for apps that contain sensitive conversations, photographs, documents or other personal information.
For many Pixel users, this could become one of the most useful everyday additions in QPR2.
Important Bug Fixes
Google has also addressed several stability problems in Beta 3.
One major fix targets an issue where opening the notification shade or Quick Settings could cause visual corruption and, in some cases, an unexpected device restart.
Another fix addresses incorrect battery-health warnings. The Device Health and Support tool could previously show false warnings suggesting that a device’s battery capacity had degraded.
These fixes should make the beta experience more reliable for people testing Android 17 QPR2.
Which Pixel Phones Can Get Android 17 QPR2?
Google lists the following supported Pixel devices for Android 17 QPR2:
- Pixel 6a
- Pixel 7, 7 Pro and 7a
- Pixel Tablet
- Pixel Fold
- Pixel 8, 8 Pro and 8a
- Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold and 9a
- Pixel 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL, 10 Pro Fold and 10a
The availability of individual beta builds can vary by device, so users should check Google’s official Android Beta information before installing.
How to Install Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3
Pixel owners interested in testing the update can enroll their supported device in Google’s Android Beta for Pixel program. After enrollment, eligible devices receive beta updates over the air. Google recommends backing up important data before enrolling, even though a full data reset is generally not required when moving to the beta.
Android 17 QPR2 official release notes
Should You Install the Beta?
If you enjoy testing new Android features and own a compatible Pixel, Beta 3 offers some interesting reasons to try it—especially the new App Lock, customization improvements and enhanced protection against call-forwarding scams.
However, it is still a beta release, so users who depend on their phone for work, banking or other critical tasks may prefer to wait for the stable release rather than use pre-release software.
Final Thoughts
Android 17 QPR2 Beta 3 is more than a routine bug-fix update. Google has combined security improvements with interface customization, privacy features and stability fixes.
The call-forwarding protection is particularly important because it targets a real fraud technique, while App Lock and improved Pixel customization make the update more interesting for everyday users.
As Android 17 QPR2 moves closer to its final release, Beta 3 gives Pixel users an early look at what could become one of the most useful Android updates of 2026.
