The core component of an operating system is called the kernel and it is the liaison between the software and the hardware. With the recently released update to
Android 15 QPR2 beta 1,
Google has included an update to the kernel of all Tensor-powered Pixel devices. This includes the
Pixel 6,
Pixel 6 Pro,
Pixel 6a,
Pixel 7,
Pixel 7 Pro,
Pixel 7a,
Pixel 8,
Pixel 8 Pro,
Pixel 8a,
Pixel Fold, and the
Pixel Tablet which will join the
Pixel 9,
Pixel 9 Pro,
Pixel 9 Pro XL and
Pixel 9 Pro Fold in running Linux 6.1.
Previously, devices powered by the Tensor G1 and G2 were using Linux 5.10. Pixel phones and tablets sporting the
Tensor G3 were running Linux 5.15. Google changes which Linux versions are supported every time a new version of Android is released. With seven years of Android upgrades now available to new Pixel buyers, Google has to deliver major kernel upgrades every so often. And this will happen to those running the
Android 15 QPR2 beta.
Kernel upgrades for (from L-R) Tensor G1, G2, and G3 Pixel models. | Image credit-Android Authority
Those not subscribed to the beta program will get the kernel upgrade when the stable version of the next Pixel Feature Drop is released. That should take place in March 2025. If you can’t wait until March, signing up now for the
Android 15 beta program will allow you to install the
Android 15 QPR beta. Before you do that, make sure you back up all of your data first. Then go to the Android beta for Pixel website by
clicking on this link. Or go to www.google.com/android/beta.
Even Pixel 6 owners will be receiving a new kernel with the Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1 update. | Image credit-PhoneArena
When you get to the site, tap on the box that reads “View your eligible devices.” You will be sent to a page containing an image of the Pixel model you own. Underneath the image is a box that will say Android 15 beta with another button that says Opt-in. Tap that button and you’ll receive the beta update. Go to Settings > System > System updates. Keep in mind that once you install the QPR beta, you might find your battery life reduced. And while less likely with a QPR beta, some of your most important features might not work right.
If you want to leave the beta program, you’ll have to wait for Google to release the stable version of Android 15 QPR2 or else be forced to wipe your device when leaving. As for the new kernel, once your Tensor-powered Pixel receives the update (via the beta program or the stable update), you might notice improved performance, enhanced security, and some important bug fixes.
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