The first public beta for Android 15 is officially here after months of waiting. A Google representative told us that several improvements have been made as the team took feedback it received from two developer reviews. Please note that this is far from the final version of the system. Most of the rumored features like lock screen widgets or Private Space are not here. The beta primarily focuses on upcoming UI changes and security updates for Android 15.
Going forward, apps on the OS will be displayed “edge-to-edge by default.” Edge-to-edge allows apps to cover the entire screen instead of leaving gaps at the top or bottom. Android 15 also introduces end-to-end encryption to the Contacts app to help users “securely manage and verify other people’s contact information.”
App archiving is the only feature rumored to be coming to the beta. According to the company, it will allow you to uninstall cached files for the app while allowing you to keep important user data.
There’s more to the overall package, but those are the main stars. To try out Android 15 for yourself, be sure to follow the series of instructions we’ve provided below. Note that the beta is only available on a few smartphones.
Quick Steps to Download Android 15 Beta
- Make sure you have the correct Pixel model
- Enroll your device in the Android 15 Beta program on the Android Beta website
- Check for new updates and download the file
Tools and requirements
- Eligible Google Pixel device
- Internet connection
- A few minutes of your time
How to install Android 15 beta on your Pixel device
1. Make sure you own a qualifying Pixel model
Not every Android phone or tablet can install Android 15 because Google has restricted access to the OS to first-party hardware. Eligible devices include the Pixel 5a, 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, 8, 8 Pro, and the Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold. Older Pixel models cannot receive the update.
It is not known if and when other Android manufacturers will offer access to the platform. You’ll probably have to wait for the official launch to get your hands on the beta version.
2. Enroll your device in the Android 15 Beta program
Head over to Google’s Android Beta website using the account currently signed in to your eligible Pixel phone or tablet. Scroll down to the “Your Eligible Devices” section at the bottom of the page. Select your model and then follow the on-screen instructions to download the update.
3. Check for updates and then install.
Launch the Settings app on your Pixel device. Go to the System section, then System Update. You will encounter a warning about possible errors that you might encounter. Acknowledge the risks and accept the download. Give your phone or Pixel tablet enough time to install the package. Once done, reboot your hardware to complete the Android 15 beta installation.
Since it is in its early stages, Android 15 will be unstable. Chances are you’ll run into some weird glitch or the whole thing will crash. We currently do not recommend installing the beta version due to potential performance issues. In addition, many major features, such as the aforementioned lock screen widgets, are not there at all. Beto needs more time in the oven.
A stable version of Android 15 is due out later this June ahead of its late summer/early fall release. If you do decide to install the beta version, Google is looking for feedback so it can continue to make improvements. Instructions for submitting this feedback can be found on the Android Developer website.
While we’re at it, check out TechRadar’s list of the best Pixel phones for 2024 if you’re looking to upgrade.