Google is officially rolling out Android 17 QPR1 Beta 4, bringing a massive wave of stability improvements, critical bug fixes, and an exciting new productivity feature to eligible Pixel devices.
If you have been keeping up with the ongoing Android 17 software updates and running the Quarterly Platform Release (QPR) previews, this latest build tackles some of the most frustrating regressions from previous versions, ranging from broken Wireless ADB to disappearing home screen widgets.
Here is everything you need to know about Android 17 QPR1 Beta 4, the build numbers, the headline features, and a major catch for Pixel 6 owners.
Build Numbers and Device Availability
The latest software is rolling out over-the-air (OTA) to supported Pixel phones and tablets. Depending on your specific hardware, you will see one of two build variants:
CP31.260522.006.A1: Specifically for the Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, and Pixel 7 Pro.
CP31.260522.006: For all other supported Pixel devices (Pixel 7a, Pixel 8 series, Pixel 9 series, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet).
Warning for Pixel 6 / 6 Pro Owners: Google has explicitly noted that builds for the standard Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro are not included in today’s release. If you are checking the Android 17 eligible devices list to see if your phone makes the cut for this specific rollout, you will unfortunately have to wait until the next beta cycle to receive the latest updates.
Headline Feature: Screen Reactions (No Green Screen Needed!)
While previous versions like Beta 3 leaned heavily into aesthetic updates, introducing items like more blur effects across the UI, Beta 4 shifts focus to functional tools. The most notable consumer-facing addition in Beta 4 is Screen Reactions, a feature Google previously teased at The Android Show.
Screen Reactions allows creators, developers, and everyday users to record their device’s screen and their face simultaneously—completely eliminating the need for a physical green screen setup. Android automatically isolates your face in a floating window and seamlessly cuts out your real-world background.
This is incredibly useful for:
Recording reaction videos to trending clips or social posts.
Creating app tutorials or mobile walkthroughs.
Providing visual feedback on documents and app designs.
How to use Screen Reactions in Beta 4:
Open your quick settings and bring up the Screen Recorder toolbar.
Change the recording mode to “Entire Screen.”
Tap “Show Selfie Camera.”
Optional: Move or resize the floating camera window anywhere on your screen. You can also use the integrated color picker to change your background cutout color before or during the recording.
Everything Fixed in Android 17 QPR1 Beta 4
This update forms a critical part of the broader Android 17 feature changelog by focusing heavily on under-the-hood optimization. If you’ve been dealing with system crashes or camera jitters, this update addresses several prominent pain points:
Display & UI Fixes: Fixed a bug where the mouse pointer would completely vanish on external displays when using a Work Profile or apps with
FLAG_SECUREactive. Additionally, Back Tap gestures will now properly trigger on the interactive lock screen.System Stability: Resolved a frustrating bug where Home screen widgets would vanish entirely or go missing from the widget picker after a device reboot. The Settings app will also no longer crash when trying to open credential provider settings from a Private Space.
Camera Improvements: Addressed an issue where shooting video at 5x zoom caused severe frame jumps, stuttering, and jitter during camera panning.
Audio Tweaks: Uncoupled screenshot sounds from the system ringer volume. You can now capture screenshots completely silently while keeping your call and notification alerts active.
Developer & Performance Fixes: Fixed a major graphics driver regression that was causing heavy 3D performance drops in OpenGL ES applications on newer Pixel hardware. Furthermore, a connectivity regression breaking Wireless ADB and local network-dependent apps has been resolved.
How to Get the Update
If your Pixel is already enrolled in the Google Beta Program, head over to Settings > System > System update to pull down Beta 4. Because this is a QPR beta, it is generally stable enough for daily use, but backup your data before installing just to be safe.
Android 17 isn’t just a minor update… it could change how your phone works. See all the hidden features, major leaks, and real upgrades by reading our full coverage here.
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