Edgar Cervantes/Android Authority
After going through the early developer preview phase, the fourth Android 12 beta is here. Although the previous developer version is a very early version, the new Android 12 beta introduces stability improvements to the operating system and should be almost ready for release. Google said its main goal is to make Android 12 “more intuitive, better-performing, and safer.” You can learn more about the new Android beta in our article.
As you would expect from the beta version, this latest version is mainly for developers. Although it’s farther than we looked at last time, we warn against trying unless you have auxiliary equipment around, because it may be too cumbersome to be used as a daily driver. For those who have a spare pixel or want to proceed with caution, you can download and apply the update manually or via OTA.In other words, the recommended method is Over-the-air updates you can register here.
Although using factory mirroring is usually the default method, we strongly recommend skipping factory mirroring to support OTA mirroring. You still need to install it manually, but using the OTA image does not require you to completely wipe your device. Of course, if you are a developer and want the cleanest method, then a factory image may be better.
Decide whether to sideload or OTA? continue reading.
Editor’s note: The Android Beta steps above and below are compatible with Google Pixel smartphones from the Pixel 3 series onwards.
This is everything you need to get started
- A compatible Pixel 3 or newer device and a USB cable to connect it to the computer
- Compatible Pixel phones include Pixel 3, Pixel 3 XL, Pixel 3a, Pixel 3a XL, Pixel 4, Pixel 4 XL, Pixel 4a, Pixel 4a 5G and Pixel 5
- Use the ADB and Fastboot commands to successfully install the Android SDK on your machine — View the tutorial here
Now is the actual step.
Download the correct file to install the Android 12 beta
Before you begin, you must download the appropriate files for your device.We recommend using OTA image On the factory image, because the process is easier to perform and allows you to keep old files if you are interested.
Click here for OTA image For your specific Pixel device.The full factory image can also be used (here), Which requires additional operations, such as unlocking the bootloader and so on. If you want to keep it simple, we recommend sideloading OTA. We have designed the following instructions for this type of installation.
Get your phone ready
After installing the files, you need to reboot your phone to recovery mode to apply OTA. Then, you can install the Android 12 beta.
- First, turn off the phone.
- Next hold strength and Volume down Button at the same time.
- The bootloader menu will now be displayed.Use the volume buttons to scroll down to Recovery mode.
- choose Recovery mode By clicking the power button.
- You will see an Android robot with an exclamation mark. Now you will press the power button and volume up button for about one second.
- Releasing the volume up button will put you fully into the recovery state.
- Next, use the volume buttons and scroll down to Apply updates from ADB. Press the power button to select an option.
- Finally, you will see a blank screen telling you how to sideload the OTA.
Prepare your PC to install the Android 12 beta
Now that your phone is ready, it’s time for a miracle to happen.
- Connect your mobile phone to your PC via a USB data cable.Remember, your PC needs to have ADB tools installed.
- On Windows, enter Command prompt. On Linux or Mac, you need to use terminal. For Windows users, make sure to navigate to any location where the folder is stored.
- Next, you must enter ADB sideload For Windows or ./adb side load Suitable for Mac/Linux.
- Now you need to enter the name of the previous .zip folder and click Enter.
- When finished, your phone will return Recovery mode, You can unplug the USB cable.
- go Restart now Use the volume keys, then press the power button.
That’s it. If all goes well, you can successfully install the Android 12 beta.