Google has just unveiled the Android P Beta (Android P Developer Preview 2) at the annual I/O 2018. This Beta version of Android P is already available on Pixel series smartphones from Google.
Android P Beta will be available on a few more smartphones apart from Pixel series phones, thanks to Project Treble. The smartphones eligible for Android P Beta are flagships from Sony, Xiaomi, OPPO, Vivo, Essential, Nokia 7 Plus and the upcoming OnePlus 6.
Android P Beta Supported Devices
For the first time, 7 Non-Google brands are compatible for a Beta version. These brands are Xiaomi, Sony, Nokia, Oppo, Vivo, OnePlus and Essential. However, this beta version is also only available to flagship devices of these brands. Some big names like Samsung, Huwei and LG are missing from the list which is slightly dissappointing given the market share these brands have. In any case here is the full list of devices compatible to Android P Beta:
- Google Pixel
- Google Pixel XL
- Google Pixel 2
- Google Pixel 2 XL
- Sony Xperia XZ2
- Xiaomi Mi Mix 2S
- Nokia 7 Plus
- Oppo R15 Pro
- Vivo X21
- Vivo X21UD
- OnePlus 6
- Essential PH‑1
Should I Download Android P Beta?
If you are the types that love testing out new features and dont minds some bugs and alags here and there than you definitely should. However Google warns:
“Be sure to back up your Android phone before installing beta software. The updates that you’ll receive as a part of this program are pre-release versions, and may contain errors and defects that can affect normal functioning of your device.”
You must remember once you install the beta program, you wont get monthly security updates, if at all the phone manufacturer is providing one. While bets versions are the latest build, they arent the official ones hence if you’re finicky about security patches, think twice before installing it.
Beta, versions are not one way road. You can go back to the last stable release in case you feel like, however, the device will be wiped again. So remember to backup your phone and important data before installing or un-installing any beta program.
How to Download Android P Beta?
Since this is a beta program, owners of eligible devices will have to enrol in the Android Beta program. Once enrolled they will receive the build via OTA in 24 hours. Make sure you take a proper backup of your device before installing the beta software.
