A bug in the latest Pixel beta software is causing a core Android app to malfunction.

After the QPR1 Beta ended, Pixel users who chose to remain enrolled installed the initial Beta version of the December Quarterly Platform Release, known as Android 16 QPR2. Some users opted out of the Beta program following the September QPR release by using the Opt Out button on the Android 16 Beta Program website. These users were expected to receive the Android 16 QPR1 update, which would move them to the stable version without erasing their devices.

However, those still using Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3.1 are experiencing issues with Google Wallet/Pay and VPN. The Pixel-specific VPN by Google displays an error message stating that the VPN "isn’t available for this account." Google Wallet shows a message indicating, "Your device doesn't meet security requirements. This device may be rooted or running uncertified software."

Some speculate that Google may be waiting for the October 2025 security patch before releasing a stable version for Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3.1 users to exit the Beta program without a data wipe.

Some affected Pixel users have posted on Reddit. One user reported encountering a popup that says "Device doesn't meet security requirements" when opening Google Wallet, preventing them from using Google Wallet or Google Pay, despite passing the Google Play Protect certification.

Other users are also experiencing problems. One user described a similar situation, expressing concern about potential data loss if the issue is not resolved soon. Several Pixel users, primarily using Pixel 9 series phones, have also reported issues with Google Wallet and Google Pay.

The QPR updates are also known as "Pixel Feature Drops." These quarterly updates introduce new features to supported Pixel phones. The Pixel devices eligible for Pixel Feature Drops this year include:

Pixel 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL (through August 2032)

Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold, 9a (through August 2031)

Pixel 8, 8 Pro, 8a (through October 2030)

Pixel Fold (through June 2028)

Pixel Tablet (through June 2028)

Pixel 7, 7 Pro, 7a (until October 2027)

Pixel 6 series (6, 6 Pro, 6a) (until October 2026)

Google released QPR1 this month (September 2025), with more to come.

Android 16 was released in June, and Android 17 is expected around next June. The Pixel 6 series and later models should be compatible.

In other news, a new coffee table book titled "Iconic Phones: Revolution at Your Fingertips" will be released in a few months.