Android Q: Here’s how to download and install in simple steps

Google’s Android Q, the upcoming major smartphone OS version that will be widely rolled out later this year is available in the form of developer Beta 1 right now. However, that doesn’t mean non-developers can’t get it. It comes with several new features including Dark Mode, enhanced privacy and more. And it is possible for select users to experience them already.

As it is the case with any Android beta version, the first one is always specific to Google’s own Pixel devices. Similarly, Android Q Beta 1 is also available for Pixel smartphones only. What’s new this time is that Google has included the first-generation Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones in the beta testing list in addition to Pixel 2, Pixel 2XL, Pixel 3 and Pixel 3XL smartphones. So, if you own one of these six handsets, here’s how you can get Android Q simply.

We also recommend you to back up all your smartphone data before starting with the entire process in case anything goes wrong.

Step 1: If you have not enrolled for the beta, visit google.com/android/beta and enrol your Pixel smartphone for the Android beta program.

Step 2: Once you click on ‘Enrol’, you will get a notification on the registered Pixel smartphone stating that the system update is ready.

Step 3: You will also get the option to install. The process will automatically restart the handset and voila, you will have Android Q Beta 1. To ensure you are running the beta version, go to Settings > About phone > Build Number and check if the build number starts with QPP.

It is also possible to move back to the public Android release by visiting the beta website and clicking on ‘Opt out’. Your device will get an update within the next 24 hours. The process will wipe the device clean and will restart it with the public Android version.