Android 14 Developer Preview: How to Install
The Android 14 Developer Preview has arrived, signaling the start of the pre-release cycle. This means we can expect exciting updates over the next few months that will bring us closer to the stable release of Android 14. Although it’s only intended for developers, the pre-release software is available for installation on your Google Pixel 7 or other supported Pixel phone. In this guide, we’ll cover how to install the Android 14 Developer Preview to get in on the fun.
Android 13 Beta-Testing
Keep in mind that the Android 14 Developer Preview isn’t the only pre-release program available. Android 13 QPR2 beta-testing is underway, with a planned stable release of the next Android 13 Feature Drop in March 2023.
To install either the Android 14 Developer Preview or the Android 13 beta program, you’ll need a Pixel phone as Google only maintains Android and Pixel devices. You can expect to receive system updates for Pixel phones before most third-party manufacturers.
Android 14 Developer Preview
Android 14 began testing in February 2023 with Developer Preview 1, a build meant for developers to get their apps ready for the stable launch. It offers a preview of new features, with more planned for the beta program’s April 2023 arrival. After upgrading to Android 14, you’ll be eligible for over-the-air updates, which means you won’t have to install future updates manually.
Eligible Devices
Only a limited number of devices are compatible with the Android 14 Developer Preview. You can test it out on an emulator as part of Android Studio or flash it on a Pixel phone. The supported devices are:
- Pixel 7 & 7 Pro
- Pixel 6a
- Pixel 6 & 6 Pro
- Pixel 5a
- Pixel 5
- Pixel 4a 5G
Before Installation
Before installing the Android 14 Developer Preview, you need to prepare your computer and phone. Your phone needs to communicate with your computer via debugging mode, and your computer requires extra software to send commands to your phone. Here’s how to prepare:
Prerequisites:
- A computer running Linux, macOS, or Windows
- A supported Pixel phone for the Android 14 Developer Preview
- A good cable to connect your computer or phone with USB OTG
On Your Phone
- Enable the Developer Options by tapping the build number seven times in your system settings’ About phone section.
- Go back to the top level of system settings and navigate to System > Developer Options.
- Look for the USB debugging toggle and turn it on.
Installation Routes
There are two ways to install the Android 14 Developer Preview:
OTA Installation
Installing using OTA files is the safest and easiest method:
- Download the Android 14 developer preview for your device from the Android Developers website.
- Connect your Android phone with your computer using a USB cable.
- Authorize the USB debugging connection with Always allow.
- Type the command ‘adb reboot recovery’ in the terminal window on your computer.
- Type the command ‘adb devices’ in the terminal window, ensuring your phone is properly connected.
- Type the command ‘adb sideload ota_file.zip’, replacing the ota_file.zip bit with your downloaded file.
Android Flash Tool Installation
If using the Android Flash Tool, follow these steps:
- Plug your Google Pixel into a USB port on your computer.
- Visit the official Android Flash Tool website on your computer and click the Get Started button.
- Follow the instructions to download Android USB Driver if needed.
- Click Allow ADB access and confirm the connection to your computer on your Pixel phone.
- Choose to install Android 14 developer preview and follow on-screen instructions.
