Google announced that the first Android 16 Developer Preview is now available for Pixel devices.
It is anticipated that Google would release the upcoming Android version somewhat earlier than normal. Since Android 16 is now anticipated to launch in the second quarter of 2025, Google is working diligently to get the initial beta builds of the operating system onto Pixel smartphones.
Google made the unexpected announcement that Pixel smartphones may now access the first Android 16 Developer Preview. The inclusion of smartphones like the Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, and Pixel 6a in the list of devices eligible for the recently released Android 16 Developer Preview is even more unexpected.
You will need to manually install the first Android 16 Developer Preview on your Pixel phone or tablet because it is available for download as system images. Having said that, the full list of Pixel devices that work with this Android 16 Developer Preview is as follows:
Remember that you can use an OTA image to restore a device that was unable to boot up after installing an OTA update for an Android 16 Developer Preview release.
It’s also crucial to note that you will be presented with OTA (over-the-air) updates of the next preview builds as soon as you install this Android 16 Developer Preview on your Pixel smartphone.
Before contemplating this upgrade, bear in mind that Pixel owners will not be able to switch to the Android 16 Developer Preview program without erasing their device, according to Google.
Every time a new version is launched, Google will, of course, give Pixel users flashable photos; however, it is up to each individual to choose the strategy that suits them best.
You may now download an OTA image from Google’s website if you possess any of the Pixel devices mentioned above. To prevent any problems during installation, make sure you adhere to Google’s detailed instructions.