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!