Android 14 is the highly anticipated upcoming release of the world’s most popular mobile operating system, and Google is currently testing the first mid-cycle update for Android 14 through a new beta program. This article provides information on which Pixel devices can install the Android 14 Beta, the latest Android 14 Beta build, and how to get Android 14 using the Android Beta Program or by sideloading it.
According to Google, the following Pixel devices will be eligible for the Android 14 Beta program: Pixel 4a 5G, Pixel 5, Pixel 5a, Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet. These devices will have access to the Android 14 Beta and will be able to test out the new features and improvements of the operating system.
As of September 20, 2023, Google has released the first Android 14 Beta for the upcoming QPR1 release. This mid-cycle release is expected to arrive for Pixel phones in line with a future “Feature Drop.” However, it’s worth noting that the stable version of Android 14 was originally scheduled to debut in August or September. Despite the delay, Google is now testing out a far-off Android 14 build before the official release.
The reason for the delay is unclear, but it is expected that Google will launch Android 14 on October 4, which coincides with the release of new Pixel phones. This is based on the pattern of Google launching new software updates on the first Monday of the month.
To get Android 14 on your Google Pixel device, the easiest way is to join the Android Beta Program. This program allows users to opt-in to Android beta updates and install them like a normal system update. It does not require any fancy tools, and users can roll back to Android 13 at any time by opting out.
However, if users prefer to sideload Android 14, the fastest method to get the new version of Android on a Pixel device, they can follow these steps:
1. Download the needed files: Users can download the Android 14 QPR1 Beta OTA file from Google’s Full OTA Image hosting site. It’s important to download the file that corresponds to their specific Pixel device.
2. Boot into Recovery mode: Users need to fully power down their Pixel device and then hold down the Power button and Volume down button simultaneously to access the Bootloader page. From there, they can select Recovery mode.
3. Navigate to ADB sideload: Using the volume buttons, users need to scroll down to Apply update from ADB and select it. This will launch a screen with instructions on how to sideload an OTA.
4. Connect the handset to a computer with ADB tools installed: Users need to ensure that they have ADB and Fastboot tools on their computer and connect their Pixel device to the computer.
5. Enter the sideload command: Depending on the operating system of the computer, users will need to type in either “adb sideload” or “./adb sideload” followed by the file name of the downloaded OTA file.
6. Reboot the phone: Once the OTA is done installing, users can select the Reboot now option in Recovery mode to start using Android 14.
It’s important to note that this process does not wipe the device, but it’s recommended to back up any important data before proceeding.
In conclusion, Android 14 Beta is now available for eligible Pixel devices, and users can choose to join the Android Beta Program or sideload Android 14 on their devices. This allows them to experience the new features and improvements of the operating system before its official release.