On Thursday, Google unveiled the Android 16 Beta 4 update, addressing numerous bugs while simultaneously introducing significant news for users of the Google Pixel 9a. According to the tech company based in Mountain View, this device, which debuted on March 19, has now been added to the Android 16 Beta Programme. This inclusion allows developers and beta testers with a Pixel 9a to download the fourth version of the Android 16 Beta and test their applications ahead of the broader operating system release.
Android 16 Beta 4 for the Pixel 9a
In the release notes published by Google, the Pixel 9a is listed among the compatible devices for the latest Android 16 Beta 4 update. With its inclusion, the entire Pixel 9 lineup is now eligible for this pre-release version of the operating system. The updated list of devices participating in the Android Beta Programme includes:
- Google Pixel 9 Series
- Google Pixel 9a
- Google Pixel 8 Series
- Google Pixel Tablet
- Google Pixel Fold
- Google Pixel 7 Series
- Google Pixel 6 Series
Users who have enrolled their Google Pixel 9a, or other eligible devices, in the beta programme should expect to receive an over-the-air update automatically. Updates are typically rolled out gradually, meaning it may take several days for all beta testers to gain access. To manually check for the Android 16 Beta update, users can go to the Settings app, then follow the path: System > Software update > System update > Check for updates.
After the update is installed, the device will need to reboot to finalize the installation process.
Alternatively, Google offers the option to flash the factory image of Android 16 Beta 4 onto a Pixel device. However, this method is more complex and requires a certain level of technical skill. It should be noted that beta updates can be significantly less stable than standard releases, as they may contain bugs or glitches that could affect device performance. Therefore, users are advised to exercise caution when considering the installation of beta updates, particularly on their primary device.
