If you’re a little lucky, you can try out the latest version of Android right now. We explain exactly how it works.
Google has surprised us all with the early release of the Android 16 Developer Preview, months earlier than expected. This is great news for developers and tech enthusiasts who can’t wait to experiment with the latest operating system.
The timing is also special this time around: instead of a third-quarter launch, Google is promising a stable release as early as mid-year. Extra nice for anyone who always wants to try out the latest gadgets. Here’s how to install the preview.
Can your smartphone install Android 16 right now?
If you have a Pixel smartphone and are eager to test Android 16, there are a few things to consider. This early version is aimed specifically at developers and is still full of bugs and glitches. So it is not recommended that you install this on your everyday phone. But if you have a spare device you can use, this is a perfect opportunity to look ahead to what Google has in store.
Not every phone is compatible with Android 16 Developer Preview. The list of supported devices includes the Pixel 6, 7, 8 and even 9 series. If your device is among them, you can get started.
The Pixel 9. (Image: Google)
Do this before you start
Before you begin the installation, you need to prepare your smartphone. The first thing you need to do is enable developer mode. You do this by tapping seven times in quick succession on the Build number, found at the bottom of the screen in settings, near the About This Phone option. This will give you access to advanced settings and options on your device.
Next, from the Developer Options menu, you can enable OEM unlock and USB debugging features. Then connect your phone to your computer with a USB-C cable and set the USB mode to file transfer. This is the basis for getting Android 16 on your device.
Here’s how to install the latest version of Android
There are two ways to install Android 16, depending on what you find easy. The simplest way is through the Android Flash Tool. This web tool makes it easy to install Android 16 in a few clicks. Just connect your phone to your computer, open the Flash Tool in a browser such as Chrome, and follow the steps. It’s a quick and easy process, and before you know it, Android 16 will be running on your Pixel.
The second option is for the more experienced user and requires a bit more technical knowledge. It involves downloading the system images from Google and installing them manually via Fastboot mode. This can be tricky if you’re not familiar with ADB tools or unlocking the bootloader, so only do this if you know what you’re doing.
The Android Flash Tool (Image: Sam Dill/WANT)
Although the installation usually goes off without a hitch, sometimes there can be technical problems. For example, some phones have provider locks that block unlocking the bootloader.
Also, USB hubs or adapters can cause the process to go awry. If your phone crashes during installation, you can manually put it into Fastboot mode by turning it off and holding down the volume button along with the power button. From there, you can restart the flash process.
Unique Outlook
You may be wondering why on earth you would go to all this trouble? Because Android 16 offers a unique opportunity to get a glimpse into the future of mobile technology.
While the Developer Preview is certainly not perfect, you do get access to the latest features, improved performance and better security. It’s a cool preview of what will soon be available to everyone. But keep in mind that it’s a beta version, so be prepared for bugs and other imperfections.
If you’re feeling adventurous and have the right device, Android 16 is ready for you now. Wondering what new features to expect? We have them ready for you in the article below:
