Google Releases QPR3 Beta 2 Update to Enhance Android Security and Privacy

Google has rolled out the QPR3 Beta 2 update, also known as the June Pixel Feature Drop, to enhance security and privacy while also fixing several bugs. This quarterly feature drop will be the last for Android 13 before the consumer launch in June. The QPR3 Beta 2 update includes a new setting titled “Enhanced PIN privacy” that aims to prevent potential attackers from stealing PINs and wiping out bank accounts or running up credit card balances.

Enhanced PIN Privacy Setting to Prevent Hacking Attacks

The new setting called Enhanced PIN privacy disables animations when entering the PIN, eliminating the animation that highlights each number pressed when entering the PIN. This makes it harder for threat actors to snoop on your PIN, making user privacy more secure. There are many hacking attacks, including “shoulder surfing,” where threat actors look over your shoulder to find out your phone’s PIN or password input. Once they have access to your PIN, they can steal everything from your banking details to email passwords.

To unlock this new feature, users need to go to their device’s Settings, select Security and Privacy, and then tap on Device Lock. Once there, locate Enhanced PIN privacy and toggle it on. Additionally, it is essential to shield your keypad from view when entering your PIN by using your body or cupping your hands around the keypad. Other tips include using a privacy screen on their laptop or mobile device, using strong passwords with two-factor or biometric authentication.

Resolving Bugs and Improving Pixel Phone Security

The update fixes a change that messed up color profiles on displays of eligible Pixel models installed with QPR3 Beta 1. The update also features new toggle options such as Web suggestions and Device results located in the Search your phone menu while exterminating several bugs affecting notifications, always-on display, system UI blurriness, and volume panel flickering.

Pixel 6 series users who joined the QPR Beta program to get the March security update and do not typically use Beta software should not exit the Beta program yet. Google will advise them how and when to safely exit the Beta program without penalty during the June Feature Drop release.

Earlier Release for Testing Android 14

Android 13 QPR3 Beta 2 is being rolled out just two weeks after the initial preview release. Unlike developer previews and betas, these builds are suitable for general use but require users to review known issues on the page. Google released this beta update earlier than expected, possibly to complete testing before rolling out Android 14 Beta 1.

The Android Beta Feedback app is available to Pixel users to report problems. The QPR3 Beta 2 system images are available for various Pixel devices and in the Android Emulator. Users enrolled in the Android 13 Beta will receive an OTA update to Beta 2. Most users will be installing Beta 2 with the March security patch from the Android Beta Program website.

Google advises users always to lock their devices when leaving them somewhere, not verbalize sensitive information over a mobile phone, and refer to their full guide on installing Android 13 if they need help. With this update, Google has ensured that its Pixel phone users have improved security and privacy features while making their user experience even more comfortable.

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons