Google is dropping the first beta of Android P today. And it has a huge surprise in store. Apart from offering the beta for its Pixel and Pixel 2 smartphones, Google is also releasing the beta for flagship smartphones from other OEMs. This is the first time that Google has done something like this, and it has all been made possible due to Project Treble.
The phones that are getting the Android P beta build today support Project Treble which Google had debuted with Android Oreo. It promised to make the OS modular in nature thereby making OS upgrades faster and easier for OEMs.
The following devices are getting the Android P beta today:
- Essential Phone
- Nokia 7 plus
- Oppo R15 Pro
- Sony Xperia XZ2
- Vivo X21
- Mi Mix 2S
Once launched, the OnePlus 6 will also have a beta build of Android P available for installation. Apart from the above handsets, Google’s own Pixel and Pixel 2 series of smartphones also have the latest Android P beta build available for installation.
The installation process for the Android P beta will vary depending on the device you have. Make sure to head over to Google’s website to know more about the compatible devices and how to get the Android P beta on them. Do note that unlike the Pixels, you will have to flash the Android P factory image on all the other handsets. This means you will have to unlock their bootloader, and you will end up losing all your installed apps and data on the phone in the process. Nonetheless, if you cannot wait to try Android P on your device, this will be a small price to pay.