December 21, 2025, 3:07 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
Google continues to work on Android 16, focusing clearly on more transparency and control for users. With the launch of the beta program for the next quarterly platform update QPR3, the company is introducing several innovations aimed at improving privacy and user convenience. A central goal: Users should be able to see at a glance when apps are using sensitive functions like location in the background.
Google recently launched the beta program for the next quarterly platform release (QPR3) of Android 16. This version focuses on a range of improvements, particularly concerning user-friendliness and privacy. Users will soon be better able to recognize when one of their apps is accessing location data.
Enhanced Security Features
A new feature is the blue dot in the status bar, indicating when apps are accessing location data in the background. The already familiar green dot signals the use of the camera or microphone. If an application requests multiple permissions, only the green dot is displayed. Tapping on these dots provides an overview of recently used apps, allowing users to revoke permissions if necessary.
Also of interest: Google copies Apple emojis in new Android update
Other Updates
According to 9to5google, Android 16 QPR3 will be available for Pixel devices early next year. The blue dot is expected to appear on all devices with Android 12 or higher and will later reach other manufacturers. The update also introduces a brightness slider for the flashlight. Additionally, users can change the order of the “Back” and “Overview” buttons and remove the “At a Glance” widget from the home screen.