Google is preparing to upgrade the kernel version of all Tensor-powered Pixels to Linux 6.1 in Android 15 QPR2.

Pixel Feature Drops and the Android Beta Program are intrinsically linked when a new Android version moves out of beta and into the stable channel, it starts a three-month timer on the next major update,

For Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1, Google has made this first build available to the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7 and 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel Fold, Pixel Tablet, Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, Pixel 8a, Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold.

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.

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.

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.