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Google’s software is what keeps me on Pixel, not its hardware

Although it’s been nearly two months since its launch event, Google’s still facing some heat in the aftermath of the Pixel 10’s arrival on store shelves. What started out as simple disappointment over the state of Tensor — following two years of what I can only describe as Tensor G5 overhype — ballooned into full-on outrage in the face of a Genshin Impact-inspired controversy that may or may not have been a controversy after all. Simply put, people are mad about what Tensor isn’t, rather than feeling satisfied with what Tensor actually is.

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Android 16’s next big update brings auto-themed icons, and apps can’t opt out

Last month brought our first look at Android 16 QPR2, with Google delivering its first beta just hours after the Pixel 10 launch event. Alongside other changes, the company is tweaking its monochrome icon settings first launched with Android 12, renaming the setting and finally auto-tinting icons that don’t follow Google’s Material You (and now, Material 3 Expressive) design recommendations. Nearly a month after this setting first changed, developers are getting some insight into the company’s plans for themed icons.

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Pixelated 068: More M3E for you and me

Welcome to episode 68 of Pixelated, a podcast by 9to5Google. This week, Abner, Damien, and Will break down their feelings towards Material 3 Expressive now that Android 16 QPR1 is finally out in the wild. Is this the best Android has ever looked? Will Samsung follow Google’s Material 3 Expressive rather than rushing towards a Liquid Glass-esque reality? Do we spend a large chunk of this episode breaking down how we’ve laid out our quick settings menus? That last one has an easy answer: you bet we do.

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Android 16 QPR1 September update rolling out with 24 Pixel fixes

The Android 16 QPR1 update with the September 2025 security patch is rolling out today for the Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, Tablet, Fold, 8, 8 Pro, 8a, 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold, 9a, 10, 10 Pro, and 10 Pro XL. There are Pixel fixes across Audio, Battery & Charging, Biometrics, Bluetooth, Camera, Display & Graphics, Framework, Kernel, System, Telephony, User Interface.

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