The Google Pixel 9a, despite its recent launch, is still running on Android 15 QPR1, missing out on several new features and improvements introduced in the latest Android 15 QPR2 update.
The Current State of Android 15 QPR1 on Pixel 9a
After setting up and updating the Pixel 9a, users will find that their device is running Android 15 QPR1, which includes the April 2025 security patch. While this ensures the device is secure, it lacks the newer features and enhancements available in Android 15 QPR2[1].
Missing Features in Android 15 QPR2
Several key features are absent on the Pixel 9a due to it not having the Android 15 QPR2 update. Here are some of the notable omissions:
Customizable “Modes”
Android 15 QPR2 introduces a new “Modes” feature, which replaces the traditional Do Not Disturb mode. This feature allows users to customize different modes (like Work, Bedtime, or Driving) with specific settings and notifications. Unfortunately, Pixel 9a users will have to wait for the next quarterly Pixel Drop to experience this[1].
Notification Cooldown
The latest update includes a notification cooldown feature that reduces the volume and minimizes alerts for up to 2 minutes when multiple notifications are received in a short period. This feature is not available on the Pixel 9a yet[1].
Battery Percentage Ring and Live Device Image
Android 15 QPR2 adds a battery percentage ring in the Bluetooth Device details page and a live device image in the Quick Settings (QS) Tile. These visual enhancements are currently missing on the Pixel 9a[1].
QR Code for Wi-Fi Sharing
The QPR2 update incorporates a Material You design for the QR code when sharing Wi-Fi credentials, which is not present in the QPR1 version on the Pixel 9a[1].
User Experience Improvements in Android 15 QPR1
Although the Pixel 9a is on an older update, Android 15 QPR1 still brings several user experience improvements:
Keyboard Quick Switcher
Android 15 QPR1 introduces a keyboard quick switch button, represented by a globe icon in the bottom-right corner of the keyboard interface. This allows users to quickly switch between input methods[3].
Compact Heads-Up Notifications
For users watching videos or playing games in fullscreen mode, Android 15 QPR1 minimizes heads-up notifications to avoid cluttering the screen[3].
Status Bar Chips for Screen Sharing
The update includes tappable status bar chips that indicate the duration of screen recording or casting sessions. Users can tap these chips to end the session or simply lock the device to stop it[3].
Mouse Pointer Customization
Users can now customize the mouse pointer when connecting a mouse or keyboard with a touchpad. This includes tweaking the pointer fill style, stroke style, and scale[3].
Practical Applications and Future Updates
Google has indicated that the Pixel 9a will receive the QPR2 features in the next quarterly Pixel Drop, which is expected in June. This update will likely coincide with the Android 16 release. Until then, users will have to rely on the stable but older QPR1 build, which was chosen for its stability during carrier and other testing phases[1].
The wait for these features might seem unfortunate, but it underscores Google’s commitment to ensuring that updates are thoroughly tested before they are rolled out to all devices. As the tech landscape continues to evolve, staying up-to-date with the latest software is crucial, and the Pixel 9a will eventually benefit from these enhancements.
For now, users of the Pixel 9a can look forward to the upcoming update and explore the existing features that make Android 15 QPR1 a robust and stable operating system.