At its I/O conference 2017, Google has announced the availability of its new Android O Developer Preview 2 to download as a beta release for the public. This means you can test out all the upcoming features of the Android O ahead of others, provided you have a Nexus or Pixel smartphone. You can get a good look at what’s in store for Android later this year.
If you are wondering how to install Android O, the next version of Google’s mobile operating system on your phone right away, here we are to help you out.
What does Beta version mean?
Before any new version of Android is released, you can test it weeks or months before it’s available for public download. All you need is to sign up for it using your Google account and the right phone.
Which are devices eligible for the Google Android O beta?
- The list of devices includes:
- Google Pixel
- Google Pixel XL
- Google Pixel C Tablet
- Google Nexus 5X
- Google Nexus 6P
- Nexus Player
How can I download and install Android O?
Downloading Android O is simple with Google’s Android Beta Program. But before you begin, there are several things to note.
- The beta update is around 919 MB in size, and you’ll need to download this over a WiFi.
- Your device will have to be fully charged or plugged in before installing.
- Remember that this is still an early beta build of Android O which means there will be bugs and things might be broken. So, make sure to read through all of the known issues provided in Android O’s Developer Preview release notes.
- It is always a good idea to backup any important data before upgrading to Android O just in case something happens.
How can I Signup and Enroll for Android O Beta Program?
- If you have a device that is eligible, just open a web browser and go to android.com/beta.
- Now, you will be asked to sign into your Google account. Sign in with the Google account that is used on your Android device(s).
- Once you have done this, you’ll get the details on the Android O Beta program. Scroll down the page and you’ll find an ‘Eligible devices’ section.
- Find the device you wish to enroll in the beta program.
- Now click on the ‘Enroll Device’ button beside it, to enroll in the program.
- Tick the box to agree to the terms and conditions then hit ‘Join beta’.
A message will pop up to tell you your device has been enrolled and will soon receive an OTA (over-the-air) update to the beta version of Android. Click Ok.
- Shortly after, you should get an update notification on the device that you enrolled. It can take up to 24 hours.
If you don’t receive your update notification after that time, check whether you are connected to the internet and then head to Settings > About > System updates, and then check for updates.
- Once you see the update notification, pull down the notification bar and choose Download.
- In the next window, you’ll be told that this will install a preview version of Android O onto your device. Then tap ‘Download.’
- You can now install the Android O Beta. Tap Restart & install to begin the process.
- After installation, you’ll automatically receive future beta updates when they’re made available.
Are there any risks in installing Android O Beta?
As Google points out this operating system is currently in beta state, so there will be tons of bugs and app crashes. You will have stability issues, and your device could hang or even crash unexpectedly.
Google’s warning for the beta release says this: Google may also perform experiments on devices enrolled in the Beta program, which could include disabling or altering the behavior of certain settings (such as Battery Saver). Your use is at your own risk, and not Google’s. Certain functionality (including core functionality, such as your ability to place and receive calls) or applications may not work properly. You are solely responsible for any error, defect, damage or destruction due to such use, including damage to any device or loss of data.
How to Uninstall Android O Public Beta
- Do note that, doing so will wipe all data on your device – make sure to backup all important data first.
- Open a web browser and go to the Android Beta Program page at android.com/beta, then tap the ‘Unenroll device’ button next to your device.
- Shortly after, you should get an update notification on the device that you unenrolled.
- After uninstallation, your device will be running the latest stable build of Android made available for it.
