Google is making it easier than ever for anyone with a (relatively) current-generation Nexus device have a test of the Android N Developer Preview, as part of the new Android Beta Program. The short version is that you’ll no longer have to manually flash a factory image to use the beta software. You can enroll a Nexus device online, receive an over-the-air update, and go about your business.
Here’s what you need to know:
The following devices can take part in the Android Beta Program:
- Nexus 6
- Nexus 9
- Nexus 5X
- Nexus 6P
- Nexus Player
- Pixel C
To enroll a phone or tablet in the Android Beta Program, go to google.com/android/beta. You’ll see a list of your eligible devices.
Once you’re in the beta program you’ll get an update every 4 to 6 weeks, Google says, until the public launch of N, sometime in the third quarter of this year.
To un-enroll a device from the beta program, just go to that same site — google.com/android/beta and chose “UNENROLL DEVICE.” Warning: The device will receive another over-the-air update that puts it back on the latest stable public version of Android. It also will factory reset itself and wipe any data. Repeat: You will lose whatever data is on the phone (and not backed up) when you exit the beta program.
And know that there will be bugs. Things will break. This is a Developer Preview.
Otherwise, that’s it. Google’s made it easier than ever to take part in a developer preview program. The question now is whether you should.
