Android 15 Developer Preview is over, and the Android 15 Beta Program is now available for Google Pixel devices. In this tutorial, I’ll Walk you through the process of enrolling your Pixel in the Android Beta Program and show you how to install Android 15 Beta manually, quicker than ever.
What’s New in Android 15 Beta?
Google released Android 15 in early 2024, with upgrades gradually rolled out through developer previews. By June 2024, Beta 3 was released, improving stability and increasing the features introduced in Beta 2 and Beta 1. This update primarily focuses on enhancing app performance and fixing bugs from previous versions.
Key Features of Android 15 Beta
- Enhanced Performance: Tweaks to boost the capability of running multiple tasks simultaneously and to open applications faster.
- Battery Management Improvements: Enhancements in battery monitoring tools, improving power consumption estimates and management.
- Updated UI Components: Interface changes, including trendy new animations and improved widget functionalities.
- Privacy & Security Upgrades: New features that enhance privacy, such as App Tracking Transparency and upgraded security updates.
Which Pixel Devices Can Install Android 15 Beta?
Since Android 15, Google has limited beta compatibility to Pixel devices with Tensor chipsets. Notably, Snapdragon-powered devices are no longer supported. The Pixel models that can participate in the Android 15 Beta are:
- Pixel 6
- Pixel 6 Pro
- Pixel 6a
- Pixel 7
- Pixel 7 Pro
- Pixel 7a
- Pixel Fold
- Pixel Tablet
- Pixel 8
- Pixel 8 Pro
- Pixel 8a
For Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro users, this will be the last major Android update, marking the end of major OS support.
Installing Android 15 Beta via the Android Beta Program
Step 1: Join the Android Beta Program
Google’s Android Beta Program allows you to easily install beta versions through over-the-air (OTA) updates. Begin, follow these steps:
- Visit google.com/android/beta and sign in with your Google account.
- Locate your eligible Pixel device in the list and click “Opt In.”
- After a few hours (or occasionally longer), you should receive a notification to install the beta update through the “System Update” option in your device settings.
Step 2: Install the OTA Update
Once your device is opted in:
- Go to Settings > System > System update to check if there is an update available.
- Look for the update for your device and proceed to download and install the Android 15 Beta.
This method is ideal if you prefer to avoid sideloading your device. Due to the technicality involved, this method updates your device’s software automatically without formatting it.
How to Sideload Android 15 Beta on Your Google Pixel
Sideloading is the fastest way to get in on the Android 15 Beta update. This process involves manually downloading the update using a tool known as ADB (Android Debug Bridge). Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Download the Required OTA Files
To manually sideload the Android 15 Beta, start by downloading the correct OTA file for your Pixel device. You can find these files on Google’s website at developers.google.com/android/ota.
Make sure to download the OTA file that matches your specific device model, as compatibility varies among Pixel versions.
Step 2: Boot into Recovery Mode
- Power off your Pixel device.
- Connect your device to your computer and turn it on while holding the Power button and the Volume Down button simultaneously; the bootloader screen should appear.
- Use the volume buttons to navigate to Recovery mode and press the Power button to confirm.
- When you see the Android figure with an exclamation mark, press and hold the Power button, then briefly press the Volume Up button. This will take you into Recovery Mode.
Step 3: Apply the ADB Sideload Command
- In Recovery Mode, use the volume buttons to scroll to Apply update from ADB and select it by pressing the Power button.
- Ensure your Google Pixel device is connected to the computer via a USB cable.
- Download and install ADB tools on your computer from the official Android Developers website if you haven’t already.
Step 4: Run the Sideload Comma
Once connected:
- Open Command Prompt (on Windows) or Terminal (on macOS/Linux).
- Navigate to the folder containing ADB tools and the OTA file. Windows: adb sideload <filename>.zip
- macOS/Linux: ./adb sideload <filename>.zip
Replace <filename> with the exact name of the OTA file you downloaded.
Step 5: Complete the Installation
- After the sideloading process is complete, you’ll see a progress bar on your phone.
- Return to the Recovery Mode main menu.
- Choose Reboot system now to restart your device and boot into Android 15 Beta.
Important Notes for Sideloading:
- Backup Your Data: It is, however, important to note that sideloading does not delete your device or its content, but it is always advisable to back up any data that you may have.
- Enable OEM Unlocking: Additionally, ensure Developer Options have OEM Unlocking activated to assist in issues that may arise with the process.
Advantages of Installing Android 15 Beta on Your Pixel Device
When you sign up for the Android Beta Program or download the beta separately, you’ll be among the first to experience the latest features and updates. As an Android enthusiast or developer, this early access offers both excitement and practical benefits.
- Exclusive Features: Get a sneak peek at new features and improved user interfaces before the official release. This early access allows you to explore the latest innovations in the Android ecosystem.
- Bug Reporting: By participating in the beta program, you contribute to the development process. Your feedback helps Google identify and fix issues, ensuring a smoother experience for all users once the software is publicly released.
- Faster Updates: Beta testers often receive smaller, more frequent updates throughout the testing phase. This means you’ll stay ahead of the curve, enjoying the latest enhancements as they’re rolled out.
Conclusion
Installing the Android 15 Beta on your Google Pixel device is straightforward, whether you choose to join the Android Beta Program or sideload the update manually. This guide has covered the necessary steps to get you started, along with a preview of the exciting new features. Remember to back up your data and ensure your bootloader is unlocked to avoid any issues during installation.