Pixel update: Google removes globe icon in Android 15 QPR2 Beta 3

Google is rolling out Android 15 QPR2 Beta 3 to Pixel devices, with the most significant change being the removal of the globe icon in the bottom-right corner when only one keyboard/language is set. This update became available on January 21, 2024.

Google rolls out Android 15 QPR2 Beta 3 for Pixel devices

Previously, in Android 15 QPR1, a globe icon appeared when the keyboard was open, allowing users to switch languages and access Google Voice Typing. However, users of Gboard who only utilized one language faced issues, accidentally tapping the globe and bringing up the menu while attempting to hit enter. The option to remove the globe icon had been requested since December.

In QPR2 Beta 3, the globe icon no longer appears if there is no second language or keyboard app set, which improves usability. The globe will still show if an additional language is configured, switching accordingly or displaying a menu with a long press.

Android 15 QPR2 is expected to reach stable release in March, coinciding with the next Pixel Feature Drop, while one last patch for QPR1 is scheduled for February. The Beta 3 version currently feels stable.

Quarterly Platform Releases (QPRs) provide more significant updates than monthly bug fixes, focusing on UI tweaks and new features without waiting for major version releases. Google claims these QPRs are suitable for general use, with the definite launch of Android 15 QPR2 planned for March.

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Resolved issues in Android 15 QPR2 Beta 3

The Beta 3 release includes multiple fixes addressing developer- and user-reported issues. Notably, it resolves problems that could cause devices to restart during phone calls and issues with resuming apps from the app overview that would lead back to the home screen.

Additional fixes address the language picker menu, preventing it from causing the input method editor to hide in certain applications. Fixes also involve eliminating a clicking sound during video recording, restoring functionality to wireless charging, and resolving stability issues related to connected Wear OS devices.

Other repairs include addressing null pointer exceptions that previously caused the system UI to crash and improving the Android Beta Feedback app’s reliability when submitting bug reports. This app is accessible on Pixel devices for users to report issues, and there is a dedicated community on Reddit.

Android 15 QPR2 Beta 3 (BP11.241210.004) features the January 2025 security patch and is available for various models including the Pixel 6 series, Pixel 7 series, Pixel 8 series, Pixel 9 series, and the Android Emulator. Installations are primarily conducted through the Android Beta Program, though users can also flash or sideload the update.

The release information for Beta 3 includes a build number of BP11.241121.013, with security patch levels dating to December 2024, and support for x86 (64-bit) and ARM (v8-A) architectures. Google Play services is noted as version 24.45.32.

For users interested in downloading Android 15 QPR2 Beta 3, links are available for the factory image and OTA file, although the Beta Program should already support over-the-air updates.

Featured image credit: Samuel Angor/Unsplash