How to Join the Android P Beta Right Now is a post by Cory Gunther from Gotta Be Mobile.
In this guide we’ll show you how to sign up or join the Android P beta program right now. Letting you try Google’s latest version 9.0 of Android months in advance. Whether you want to install it on the Pixel or Pixel 2, or manually flash Android P to one of the other 10 supported devices.
The beta program opened back in May, but now you can try the Android P Developer Preview 3 (beta 2) which is Google’s latest release. Supported devices include the Pixel, Pixel XL, Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL. Additionally, phones from Nokia, Essential, OnePlus, Xiaomi, Sony, Vivo, and Oppo all have access. In total, 11 devices can try Android P right now.
Read: Android P Beta: What’s New & What to Know
If you have the Essential PH-1, a OnePlus 6, a Google Pixel, or one of the many new supported devices, you can try the Android P Preview 2 and beta, or the 3rd version released on June 6th. Simply follow the links and our step-by-step instructions below.
Android P Beta Supported Devices
In total, Google will let 11 different phones try Android P today. Then, we’re expecting more options and additional devices at a later date. The list of supported phones is: Google Pixel/XL, Google Pixel 2/XL, OnePlus 6, Essential PH-1, Sony Xperia XZ2, Nokia 7 Plus, Oppo R15 Pro, Xiaomi Mi Mix 2S, and Vivo X21/UD.
These manufacturers just released more information too. Sadly, the OnePlus 5T isn’t a part of this group, and only the new OnePlus 6. For more information click on these links from Essential, Nokia, Sony, Vivo, and Oppo to get started. Or, just join the beta program below.
How to Join the Android P Beta Right Now
To start, just head to Google’s beta program website. That’s where you’ll see what device you own can try Android P. Go to Google’s Android P beta page, opt-in, agree to the terms, and wait for the Android P update to hit your device. I already received it on the Pixel XL, and it was over 400MB in size. Then, on June 7th the 3rd preview hit my Pixel XL.
Instructions
- Go to the Android Beta Program website
- Sign into Gmail (if you aren’t already)
- Scroll down and find your list of eligible devices
- Find the phone you want to use, then click the blue Opt-In button
- Agree to Google’s terms, and tap OK
Now, just go to Settings > System (or similar) > and tap check for updates. You’ll get the latest version of Android P right on your phone. It’s worth noting that only devices that support Project Treble, and have Android 8 Oreo already are eligible for this program.
Go ahead and navigate to the Android beta program website, and see if you have an eligible device. Any phone connected to your Google account that is eligible will appear on this list. It’s that easy. We recommend backing up your Android first, just to be safe.
Read: Android 8.0 vs Android P: What’s New
While you’re here, take a peek at our extensive comparison linked to above. We go over what’s new in Android P so far, so you know what to expect. Keep in mind that those images are from the 1st preview, so you’ll find new additions to the software downloading today.
Join the Android P Beta for Other Phones
If you don’t have a Google Pixel or Pixel 2 joining the beta program isn’t quite as simple. Google’s partner manufacturers have instructions for users to manually flash the files, but that’s the only option. You cannot easily join the beta program with the OnePlus 6.
Those with non-Pixel phones must unlock the bootloader on their device, download some developer files, have ADB up and running, and flash unreleased software from Oppo, Essential, or OnePlus. For more information click on these links and download the necessary files.
Android P Beta Program Links
- OnePlus 6 Android P Beta
- Essential Phone P Beta
- Nokia Dev Preview Channel
- Xiaomi Android P Dev Preview
- Sony Android P Preview Files
- Vivo Developer Documents
- Oppo Android P Program
Other Details
This is the first time Google’s ever released a version of Android early for more than just a Nexus or Pixel device. So while it’s exciting, you might run into problems. Just make sure you know what to expect, back up your device first, and are prepared for the situation. Don’t just instantly register for the beta on your Nokia or OnePlus device if it’s your only device.
Google did release the Android P Developer Preview 3 (beta 2) for the Pixel and Pixel 2 on June 6th. However, that’s only for the Pixel. That said, we’re expecting other beta program members (linked to above) to offer OTA update or new beta files within the next few weeks.
Basically, be smart, use caution, and know what you’re getting into before you proceed. For more details, below are a few reasons why you should and maybe shouldn’t try the Android P beta today. At least for the Pixel, but those same reasons apply to any and all devices. In closing, we recommend waiting for the 4th and final Android P beta release in July. That’s your best bet for a seamless and smooth experience.
How to Join the Android P Beta Right Now is a post by Cory Gunther from Gotta Be Mobile.
