Google is starting to roll out Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3.1 on its Pixel phones, and this time. There is a glimmer of hope offered to users with the revival of the classic pin icon present in the Location tile in Quick Settings.
This is an update to the QPR1 series, focusing on bug fixes and minor user interface adjustments. With a notable feature of the update being the visual reversion of the icon, an attractive addition to those who like the original look.
The re-emergence of an old Icon
This was present in earlier beta releases of tndroid 16 QPR1. However, the old Location icon (similar to a classic location pin) was changed to a more generic arrow-shaped icon.
This transformation involved the Quick Settings panel as well as the status bar, thus posing a challenge of diversion to some users.
Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3.1 revoked this design after Google listened to user feedback and downscaled the new design. The pin icon is recalled too now, there is visual continuity in the whole system.
The Relevance of the Change
This small modification is a good example of commitment to user experience and feedback that Google had. The re-entry of the famous pin symbol that is so imbued in the Android environment. And that aligns with Google Maps increases recognizability and clarity.
To many users, the arrow icon was not intuitive because it did not have a direct visual context of the term, location. By reversing the icon, Google has ensured it made the UI more predictable. And more navigable, and didn’t overburden millions of users with too much cognitive load.
Above and Beyond an Icon
It has solved a large number of bugs and problems pointed out by the beta testers. Thus making the future stable release as squeaky clean as can be.
Among the fixes is better Wi-Fi compatibility, a solution to the issue where the home screen may lose its bottom row of pinned apps. And some UI tweaks to avoid visual hitch on other devices, such as foldables.
The Update: How to Get It
The Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3.1 patch is ready to be used on Pixel devices, such as the Pixel 6, Pixel 7, and Pixel 8-series, as well as the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet.
Not in the program? It is easy to enroll your eligible device to be able to get this and future beta updates.
User Implications
The addition of the icon of a classic location is not a significant change per se, but one that is pleasant to see come into being.
It simplifies the aesthetic flow and makes certain that when a user is interested in seeing or setting their location settings, it is responded to visually by an icon that is recognizable and not open to interpretation.
FAQs
What can Google be thinking about changing back to an old-style pin-like icon?
Although Google has not officially commented, the update is thought to be due to user feedback and in a bid to keep the visuals consistent across the OS. The pin icon is a universal marker that identifies location, and it fits in the brand image.
At what time was this icon rollback?
It was implemented with the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3.1 update, released now to supported Pixel devices.
Is this a change I can get on my pixel?
Yes. In case your Pixel phone is supported in the Android Beta Program, you can participate to receive the update.
Does this also apply to the other elements of Quick Settings, or when there is a notification?
Although this particular icon is added in isolation, the larger 3.1 Beta version has introduced numerous other bug fixes and stability changes that also influence other areas of the UI, such as notifications and Quick Settings on some devices.
