Android 16 preview builds are available for supported Pixel devices, from the Pixel 6 series through the Pixel 9 series, including Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet. The safest route depends on whether you want a guided over-the-air update, browser-based flashing, or precise manual control. Back up first: installing a factory image or returning to a public Android build erases the device.
Which Pixel phones can install Android 16 early?
Google’s Android 16 OTA and factory-image listings include these devices:
- Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, and Pixel 6a
- Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, and Pixel 7a
- Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, and Pixel 8a
- Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, and Pixel 9a
- Pixel Fold
- Pixel Tablet
The official image tables list build BP31.250610.009, dated August 14, 2025, with the July 2025 security patch level and Google Play services 25.20.39. The Pixel Tablet has build BP31.250610.009.A1. Check Google’s Full OTA Images or factory image page for the exact image that matches your device.
Choose an installation method
| Method | Best for | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Android Beta for Pixel | A supported Pixel owner who wants updates delivered over the air during the beta phase | Enrollment is available during the beta phase. Google says devices running a beta build are automatically enrolled in Android Beta for Pixel and receive subsequent beta and QPR OTA updates until unenrolled. |
| Full OTA image | Installing a specific OTA package without using a factory image | Download the package for the precise device model and follow Google’s Full OTA Images instructions. |
| Android Flash Tool | Someone who wants a guided browser-based flashing flow | Requires a USB connection, an unlocked device, USB debugging, and a WebUSB-capable browser such as Chrome or Edge 79 or later. |
| Manual factory image | Developers who need precise build control or repeatable installs | Requires selecting the exact image for the device codename and manually flashing it. Flashing a factory image resets the device. |
| Android Emulator | Developers without supported Pixel hardware | Android Studio provides 64-bit Android 16 system images for the emulator. |
How to install Android 16 on a Pixel
Option 1: Enroll for over-the-air beta updates
During the beta phase, eligible Pixel owners could enroll through Android Beta for Pixel and receive updates over the air. Availability depends on the program phase, so check the enrollment page before proceeding. Google says beta-build devices receive subsequent beta and QPR OTA updates until they are unenrolled.
Recommended Free Tools
#1 Best Overall
- Attention-grabbing design meets the latest evolution of the Google Pixel Camera on the new Google Pixel 11 Pro; Gemini Intelligence helps manage details so you can live in the moment[1]; and the phone is available in two sizes
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan: Works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers[2]
- Stay informed without looking at your screen: When your phone is face down, Pixel HiLight gently alerts you with subtle glowing lights when your favorite contacts are calling or you’re talking with Gemini; exclusive to Google Pixel 11 Pro phones
- Magic Capture catches the moment as you live it: With just one tap, Pixel 11 Pro captures video and photos, and automatically edits, crops, and unblurs a curated collection, ready to share – and you get the memory of how it felt to be in the moment
- Two new cameras for more brilliant photos: A larger telephoto sensor captures 30% more light for clear, beautiful photos and videos, even in the dark[3]; Pixel’s longest zoom ever helps you capture details from impressive distances[4]
Option 2: Install a full OTA image
- Back up important data before installing preview software.
- Open Google’s Full OTA Images page and identify the package for your exact Pixel model.
- Follow Google’s linked installation instructions for that package.
Option 3: Use Android Flash Tool
- Back up your device before making changes.
- On the Pixel, unlock the device and enable USB debugging in Developer options.
- Connect the phone to a computer with a USB data cable.
- Open Google’s Android Flash Tool flow in a WebUSB-capable browser, such as Chrome or Edge 79 or later, then follow its on-screen steps.
Option 4: Flash a factory image manually
- Back up your device; Google says flashing a factory image requires a full device reset.
- Use Google’s factory image page to find the image matching your device model and codename.
- Follow Google’s instructions to flash the image. Manual flashing is useful when you need exact build control or repeatable installs, such as for automated testing.
Option 5: Use the Android Emulator
If you do not have a supported Pixel, developers can use a 64-bit Android 16 system image in the Android Emulator through Android Studio. This avoids installing the preview on a personal phone.
Will installing the preview erase your data?
Factory-image flashing requires a full device reset. Google also says returning from a preview build to a public build requires a full reset that removes user data. Treat rollback as a data-erasing operation and make a backup before installing or testing the preview.
Rank #2
- Google Pixel 10a is a durable, everyday phone with more[1]; snap brilliant photography on a simple, powerful camera, get 30+ hours out of a full charge[2], and do more with helpful AI like Gemini[3]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan; it works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel 10a is sleek and durable, with a super smooth finish, scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 7i display, and IP68 water and dust protection[4]
- The Actua display with 3,000-nit peak brightness shows up clear as day, even in direct sunlight[5]
- Plan, create, and get more done with help from Gemini, your built-in AI assistant[3]; have it screen spam calls while you focus[6]; chat with Gemini to brainstorm your meal plan[7], or bring your ideas to life with Nano Banana[8]
An OTA route is distinct from flashing a factory image, but preview software still carries risk. Google’s Android 16 OTA terms say some features remain under development and the SDK should not be relied on to have the full functionality of a stable release. They also warn of possible errors, defects, and security vulnerabilities that could cause significant damage, including irrecoverable loss of use of a device.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is the Android 16 preview right for your phone?
Use a preview build when you need to develop or test against Android 16 and can tolerate unfinished software and a possible wipe. For ordinary daily use, stay on a public Android release. If you need to test Android 16 but do not want to risk your phone’s data or stability, use the Android Emulator instead.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Google Pixel 7 is powered by Google Tensor G2; it’s faster, more efficient, and more secure, with the best photo and video quality yet on Pixel[1].Other camera description:Front,Rear.Bluetooth Version 5.2 with dual antennas for enhanced quality and connection.
- Unlocked Android 5G phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; works with Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Pixel’s Adaptive Battery can last over 24 hours; when Extreme Battery Saver is turned on, it can last up to 72 hours[3]
- The 6.3-inch Pixel 7 display is super sharp, with rich, vivid colors; it’s fast and responsive for smoother gaming, scrolling, and moving between apps[4]
- Google Pixel 7 has wide and ultrawide lenses with up to 8x Super Res Zoom[5]; and Cinematic Blur brings more drama to your videos
Rank #4
- Google Pixel 10 Pro is the ultimate Pixel experience, featuring advanced AI with Gemini, unbelievable camera quality, impeccable design in two sizes, and the next-gen Google Tensor G5 chip[1]
- Unlocked Android phone gives you the flexibility to change carriers and choose your own data plan[2]; it works - Google Fi, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and other major carriers
- Get a head start on syncing your data before it even arrives: After you purchase your new Pixel, look for an email that explains how to transfer your photos, videos, passwords, and more in just a few quick steps[11]
- Pixel’s pro camera system makes everything look amazing, even in low light; capture more of the scene with advanced Google AI models, and bring out incredible details with 100x Pro Res Zoom, stunning 50 MP images, and super steady videos in 8K[10]
- Pixel 10 Pro is built with durable aluminum and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for scratch and drop resistance; the 6.3-inch Super Actua display with 3,300-nit peak brightness is easy on the eyes, even in direct sunlight[3,13,18]
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
