Ultimate Guide to Installing Android 14 Beta on Google Pixel Devices

Android 14 is shaping up to be a game-changer, and Google has just unveiled its beta version. If you’re a Pixel user, here’s your comprehensive guide to getting your hands on this exciting update.

1. Eligible Pixel Devices for Android 14 Beta:

• - Android 14 Beta is available for:
  — Pixel 4a 5G
  — Pixel 5
  — Pixel 5a
  — Pixel 6
  — Pixel 6 Pro
  — Pixel 6a
  — Pixel 7
  — Pixel 7 Pro
  — Pixel 7a
  — Pixel Fold
  — Pixel Tablet

Note: Older Pixel models like Pixel 4a, Pixel 4a 5G, Pixel 4/XL, Pixel 3a/XL, Pixel 3/XL, Pixel 2/XL, and the original Pixel/XL aren’t supported.

2. Latest News on Android 14 Beta:

• - The second beta version, Android 14 QPR1 Beta 2, was released on October 5, 2023.
  - This update is expected to align with a major “Feature Drop” around December.
  - Coincidentally, this release followed the launch of the Pixel 8 series.

3. Enrolling in the Android Beta Program:

• The most straightforward method to experience Android 14 is by joining the Android Beta Program. This program lets you:
  - Opt-in for beta updates.
  - Install updates just like regular system patches.
  - Opt-out and revert to Android 13 if needed.

4. Manual Installation: How to Sideload Android 14 Beta:

For tech enthusiasts who prefer a hands-on approach:

a. Download Android 14 QPR1 Beta files:

— Visit Google’s Full OTA Image site to download the beta OTA file.
— Choose the OTA file specific to your Pixel model.
— Always backup essential data before proceeding.

b. Boot into Recovery mode:

— Power off your Pixel.
— Press and hold the Power and Volume down buttons simultaneously until the Bootloader page appears.
— Navigate to and select ‘Recovery mode’.

c. Navigate to ADB sideload:

— In Recovery mode, select ‘Apply update from ADB’.

d. Connect Pixel to a computer with ADB tools:

— Ensure ADB and Fastboot tools are installed. They can be sourced from the Android Developers website or via Universal ADB Drivers from ClockWorkMod for Windows.

e. Enter the sideload command:

— On Windows: Navigate to the ADB tools folder in Command Prompt and type `adb sideload [filename.zip]`.
— On macOS/Linux: In Terminal, navigate to the ADB tools folder and type `./adb sideload [filename.zip]`.

f. Reboot your phone:

— Once the installation completes, select ‘Reboot now’ in Recovery Mode.

Stay updated with the latest Android advancements and make the most of your Pixel device. Happy updating!