Pixel users can now get an early look at Android 15 by installing the initial developer preview on the Pixel 7a. Google has recently launched this unstable beta so developers can try out new features and updates that will be part of the next Android release.
While this preview build offers early access, it also has potential risks. Developer previews are intended for app testing and bug finding before public release.
Suppose you're eager to trade the risks for early access. In that case, you can install Android 15 on your compatible Pixel 7a by following these steps. This guide will walk through downloading and flashing the developer preview to get your Pixel 7a ready with the latest OS before everyone else.
Backup your Google Pixel 7a
- Open the Google Pixel 7a Settings App.
- Scroll down and tap on "Google".
- Click on "Backup".
- Tap "Back up now" to start the backup.
Enable Developer Options on Google Pixel 7a
To enable developer options on Google Pixel 7a, follow the below steps:
- Open Settings on your Pixel 7a.
- Scroll down and tap on "About Phone".
- In the About Phone window, find and tap the "Build Number 7 times" continuously.
- After tapping 7 times, you will see a message that says, "You are now a developer". This enables developer options on your Pixel device.
Enable USB Debugging And OEM Unlocking on Google Pixel 7a
Enabling USB Debugging
To enable USB debugging on Google Pixel 7a, follow the below steps:
- Open Settings on your Pixel 7a.
- Scroll down and tap on "System".
- In the System section, find and click on"Developer Options".
- In Developer Options, locate the "USB Debugging toggle" and turn it on.
- A pop-up message will appear. Tap "OK" to confirm enabling USB Debugging.
Enable OEM Unlocking
To enable OEM unlocking on Google Pixel 7a, follow the below steps:
- Open Settings on your Pixel 7a.
- Scroll down and tap on "System".
- In the System menu, find and click on"Developer Options".
- In Developer Options, locate the "OEM Unlocking toggle" and turn it on. This will allow you to unlock the bootloader.
- A pop-up message will appear. Tap "Enable" to confirm.
Download
To flash the Android 15 Developer Preview on Google Pixel 7a, you need to Download the Android Flash Tool and Android 15 Developer Preview image for Pixel 7a.
- Android Flash Tool - Download
- Android 15 Developer Preview image for Pixel 7a - Download
- Android 15 Developer Preview image for Pixel 7a - Download
Note:
When installing the prerelease software, use a secondary Pixel device rather than your primary phone. This prevents any issues caused by the developer preview from impacting your primary device.
Flash Android 15 Developer Preview on Google Pixel 7a
To flash the Android 15 developer preview on Goole Pixel 7a, Follow the below steps:
- On your computer, stop the adb service by running:
$ adb kill-server
- Connect your Pixel 7a to your computer via a USB cable.
- Open Chrome browser and go to flash.android.com.
- When prompted, allow adb access on your Pixel 7a. By tapping "Always allow" and "OK".
- On the Flash tool, click on "Add new device" and select your connected Pixel 7a.
- Click on your Pixel 7a after it connects.
- Under the "Popular builds" section, Click on"Developer Preview".
- Click on "Install" to begin flashing. Your Pixel 7a will reboot into fastboot mode.
- Once you see the "Flash Complete" message, disconnect your Pixel 7a.
Thats it! You have successfully flashed the Android 15 Developer Preview on your Google Pixel 7a phone.
Conclusion
The Android 15 Developer Preview provides an exciting glimpse of the latest Android features and updates before public release. However, since it is an unfinished build, it offers no guarantees of stability or performance. Install the preview at your own discretion only if you are prepared to troubleshoot potential issues.
For most regular users, waiting for the public beta or stable build is advisable for a much more refined Android 15 experience. The Developer Preview best suits developers and advanced users who want to help Google find bugs before launch.
Remember to back up your data and reset your phone when switching back to official firmware later. In summary, while the Android 15 Developer Preview gives Pixel users early access to the future of Android, caution is recommended as this is pre-release software.
Also Read: Download and Install Android 15 Developer Preview on Google Pixel 7 and 7 Pro
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