The new Android 8.1 Oreo developer preview is now available for Nexus and Pixel devices. Although the final build will only be released in December, you can try it early on your device in the post below.
There are two ways to install Android 8.1 developer preview, by either manually flashing the update files or enrolling Google’s beta program. The supported include the Pixel, Pixel XL, Nexus 5x, Nexus 6P, Pixel C tablet, Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL. It’s pity as the Nexus Player is not on the list of the first build. Here’s how to install the Android 8.1 Oreo Developer preview on your device.
How to Install the Android 8.1 Oreo Beta Through OTA
- Launch your browser and visit Android.com/beta
- Log into your Google Account
- Read the beta program terms and conditions and scroll down to Eligible Devices
- Find your device and tap the green Enroll Device button
- Agree to all terms and tap on Join Beta
There will be a confirmation that you’ve successfully enrolled in the beta, tap OK. Now simply wait for the Android 8.1 Oreo beta update arrives and starts being downloaded. The update should begin within the next 24-48 hours, or even earlier. You can also head to Settings > About Phone > Check for updates and try to force the download.
If you see the update, pull down the notification bar and choose download. Your phone will start downloading Android 8.1 Oreo developer preview. Simply reboot and install the software.
Also read: How To Update Nexus 7 2012 Android 7.1.2 Nougat With Beanstalk Custom ROM
Manually Install Android 8.1 Oreo Preview
If you cannot wait for the beta program and OTA updates, you can also manually flash the software. The first thing you need to do is installing ADB driver on your computer as well as downloading the Android 8.1 Oreo System Image for your device.
- Nexus 5X Android 8.1 Beta
- Pixel 2 Android 8.1 Beta
- Pixel 2 XL Android 8.1 Beta
- Nexus 6P Android 8.1 Beta
- Google Pixel Android 8.1 Beta (For the Pixel and Pixel XL, choose the right file depending on carrier)
- Pixel XL Android 8.1 Beta (other carriers link)
- Pixel C Tablet Android 8.1 Beta
Once done, unzip these files to a selected folder. After you have unzipped the Android Oreo system image, type cmd into the address bar on Windows, or open a terminal on Mac, Linux or Chrome OS. Reminder, if you are using a MAC, remember to make sure terminal is running inside the unzipped image folder.
If your Nexus/Pixel device is not unlocked bootloader, you need to do that first as the Android 8.1 beta can’t be installed on a locked device. Here are steps to manually flash Android 8.1 Oreo.
- Open a Terminal or cmd in the adb folder and enter the command below to unlock bootloader
adb reboot bootloader
For Nexus 6P or Pixel devices, you will need to type “fastboot devices” and then “fastboot flashing unlock” to unlock the bootloader
- In Fastboot, enter
fastboot oem unlock
Follow the on-screen instructions and wait a minute for it to unlock.
- Now, on Windows, double click on flash-all.bat. If you are using a Mac or other platforms, you will need to enter: sudo ./flash-all.sh
- After flashing the Android 8.1 O Preview Factory Image is complete, simply unplug the cable and reboot your device.
That’s all! You only now complete the setup process and start enjoying Android 8.1 Oreo