Google Pixel tips and tricks
All Pixel and Pixel XL owners can get Android O's beta update on their devices Google

Google has released the public beta version of the Android O to compatible Pixel and Nexus phone owners. A public beta is a testing build that is released prior to a full scale consumer rollout of the final software.

Announcing the rollout at its annual developer conference Google I/O 2017, the company said," our first beta-quality candidate, available to test on your primary phone or tablet. We're inviting those who want to try the beta release of Android O to enrol now at android.com/beta."

The Android O will bring many new features to the Android ecosystem, including picture in picture mode, notification dots and smart text selection. There will be four beta builds in total before the final OTA version is released sometime in September onboard the rumoured Google Pixel 2 phone.

While this is the second developer preview for Android O, it is the first time a public beta has been made available for the upcoming OS. However, unlike last year, non-Google phones will not be getting to test the beta version as of now.

Below are the compatible devices for Android O and its beta builds:

  • Pixel
  • Pixel XL
  • Nexus 5X
  • Nexus 6P
  • Nexus Player
  • Pixel C

How to install Android O public beta

  • Make sure you have created a back up of all your data as flashing the new OS may wipe clean your phones
  • You don't need to be a registered developer with Google to get this build, but have to sign up to the Android Beta Program
  • If you have a Google account, no additional hassles are required. You may just be asked to authenticate your sign in once again
  • If your device is eligible, the system will automatically detect it and the installation will begin immediately
  • Make sure you are connected to a good working Wi-Fi else the installation process will keep restarting
  • Once you have the beta build installed, you do not need to manually download future builds as they will automatically come to your phone
  • You can also manually flash factory images by downloading it from developer.android.com. Get a detailed guide on how to do that here.
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