The Android landscape is ever-changing, and currently, all eyes are on thePixel 8andPixel 8 Proby Google. These flagship smartphones have consistently led the way within the Android world, pioneering the latest OS advancements. Today, they venture into a fresh domain with the Android 14 QPR1 Beta program.
For those enthusiastic Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro owners who’ve just gotten their hands on the devices, there’s some thrilling news. No more waiting on the sidelines with the stable Android 14 version, because the Android 14 QPR1 Beta program has officially rolled out for these devices (viaDroidlife). The latest builds for these phones, intriguingly codenamed “shiba” and “husky,” align them with the current release versions of the other supported Pixel models.
Now, if you’re scratching your head, wondering why there’s a beta for Android 14 when the stable version was released just a week ago, here’s a refresher. Google’s Quarterly Platform Release (QPR) program is a mechanism that allows Google to unveil sizable Android updates every three months. This particular beta method enables a prolonged beta phase, facilitating the detection of bugs, introduction of fresh features, and paving the path for a seamless version of these substantial quarterly rollouts. Android 14 QPR1 is scheduled for an official launch as the December 2023 Pixel Feature Drop, but beta testers can get an early taste.
Signing up for the QPR1 beta is a breeze. Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro users can simply register through theAndroid Beta Program portal, which prompts an over-the-air update for the phone. If you’re tech-savvy and prefer a hands-on approach, there are options toflash the factory image or OTA file directly.
If things pan out as they should and Google keeps its current Android numbering scheme, the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro will get Android 21 in 2030. That’s bonkers if you think about it!
— Android Police Google Editor Manuel Vonau in ourGoogle Pixel 8 review
Beyond the software, it’s worth acknowledging the Pixel 8 series’hardware prowess. With the robust Tensor G3 chipset paired with 8 or 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1TB of UFS 3.1 storage, it promises performance leaps. The inclusion of the Titan M2 security chip, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, and the IP68 water and dust resistance further solidify its robustness.
On the software end, though, the Pixel 8 takes pride in a remarkable seven-year full OS update promise. This ambitious commitment potentially ensures Pixel 8 users could experience Android 21 by 2030. Additionally, the Pixel 8 debuts enhanced security measures, including a more secure biometric face unlock with Class 3 support, making online banking and payments safer.
The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro’s entry into the Android 14 QPR1 Beta program signifies Google’s consistent efforts in refining the Android experience. As these devices continue to push the boundaries, Android enthusiasts have much to look forward to.
Google Pixel 8
The Google Pixel 8 ships with intriguing new software features powered by Android 14, and it will eventually be upgraded to Android 21 thanks to Google’s 7-year software support guarantee.
Google Pixel 8 Pro
The Pixel 8 Pro does everything the regular Pixel 8 model does, and then some. Like its less expensive counterpart, it now has access to the Android Beta Program, giving interested users a sneak peak at the December 2023 Pixel Feature Drop.
