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*Updated* How to install Android 13 beta

Use these steps to get a preview of the latest release
Last Updated on July 15, 2024
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Google continues to invite Pixel series users, OnePlus and Xiaomi owners (and others) to test the Android 13 beta. Beta testing means users can get their hands on the unfinished version of Android 13. And as Beta 4 is now available, the next step will be the final release. Yet to install the Android 13 beta? Now is the time to get a final look before the full release.

There are two major methods you may use to install the latest Android beta version. Here’s how to install the beta versions, which are simpler to set up than Developer Previews.

Which devices are supported by the Android 13 beta?

Google has made a list of the phones which can run the beta version of Android 13. If your phone is not listed, then you should wait for the full release to avoid any unnecessary compatibility issues.

  • Pixel 4, 4 XL
  • Pixel 4a, 4a 5G
  • Pixel 5, 5a
  • Pixel 6, 6 Pro
  • ASUS Zenfone 8
  • Lenovo P12 Pro
  • Nokia X20
  • OnePlus 10 Pro
  • OPPO Find N
  • OPPO Find X5 Pro
  • Realme GT 2 Pro
  • Sharp AQUOS sense6
  • Tecno Camon 19 Pro
  • Vivo X80 Pro
  • Xiaomi 12 series
  • ZTE Axon 40 Pro

How can I install the Android 13 beta on my phone?

You can install Android 13 beta 4 one of two ways: directly from your phone, or via a PC. In the sections below, we’ll demonstrate how to do it using a phone first, and then a computer.

Step 1

1

Check out the Android 13 Beta Program website

To download with your phone, check out the Android 13 Beta Program website with a desktop or mobile web browser.

Step

2

Click view Eligible Devices

If necessary, log in with your primary Google account. Then, to see the list of supported devices, click View Eligible Devices.

Google beta program website

Step 3

3

Select the Opt-in option and Android 3 beta 4

To install the Android 13 Beta on your phone, click the Opt-in option underneath your phone model on the list. After that select Android 13 beta 2 program.

eligable devices to opt-in

Step

4

Accept terms then select Download and install

Consider the terms and conditions page, then check the ‘I agree to the terms of the beta program’ box. Now, select the Confirm and enroll button.

Your device will receive the update notification shortly.

Note: If you didn’t receive an update notification, you could check manually by navigating to Settings, System, and System update.

Step

1

Requirements to download with a PC

To download with your computer, make sure you meet the following requirements:

  • Machine running Windows, macOS, or Linux.
  • Supported device that is compatible with Android 13 Betas.
  • Make sure the cord connecting your phone to your computer is reliable.
  • Secure web browsers, such as Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome. The browser also needs to support webUSB for the Android Flash Tool to connect to your phone.

Step

2

Connect phone to PC

To download with your PC, connect your phone to a computer’s USB port using the cable.

Step

3

Visit Android Flash Tool website

Then, go to the official Android Flash Tool website on your computer and click the Get Started option.

android flash tool webpage and get started option

Step

4

Select Download Android USB Driver

Now, select Download Android USB Driver and then follow the instructions.

download android USB driver

Step

5

Select Allow ADB access

To enable bidirectional data transfer between your computer and phone, select Allow ADB access. If the Flash Tool displays the message No devices available, proceed with the on-screen instructions to get your device ready for installation.

Allow ADB for data transfer

 

Step

6

Add your device

When your device is ready, click the Add new device button. Press the Connect button after selecting your phone model from the menu pop-up.

add device for android 13 installation

Step

7

Select Android 13 beta build

After the process, you can search for the Android 13 beta build from within the Android Flash Tool.

The website will redirect you to the build’s overview screen.

Installing a preview build will erase all of your old system files, lock the bootloader, and factory reset your device.

Step 8

8

Start the process by clicking on Install build

Note that, you may modify the installation settings by clicking the Pencil symbol in the upper right. When you’re ready to install the Android 13 Beta after making your settings, click the Install build button.

install the build that you have selected

Could I go back to Android 12?

Downgrading is a choice you can make if you don’t like the modifications made to your device or if it can’t handle the OS effectively.

If you used the first option to upgrade to Android 13 (via the Android beta program), you may go back to the website and choose “leave beta version”, which will send an update to your device that will roll it back to Android 12.

However, restoring the original OS is more complex and time-consuming if you have flashed your phone.

Taste the Tiramisu!

Android 13 can hugely improve your System’s security and performance. With the changes to the core of this Google-driven OS, it has become very appealing to mobile enthusiasts. However, you might want to hold your horses until the full release of Android 13 to test it on your phone.

Furthermore, many phones will be able to support the full release, and it will generally be more stable and bug-free. If your phone supports the final release, it will automatically receive the update, and you won’t have to struggle to upgrade your phone manually.

Farhad has spent the last decade getting hands-on experience with various electronic devices, and is on the hunt for deals for PC Guide.