Very recently, it was reported that Xiaomi’s 15 and 14T Pro smartphones had been made eligible for the Android 16 developer preview program in the global market. Following this notable update, OnePlus has announced the release of the Android 16 beta 2 developer preview specifically for its flagship OnePlus 13 model. This latest update is intended for developers and highly advanced users, offering a unique opportunity to explore the features of the forthcoming Android 16 operating system. This build emphasizes enhancements in user experience, but it also comes with a cautionary note given the complexity and developmental stage of the software.
Android 16 Beta 2 Developer Preview Features
The OnePlus 13, powered by the company’s popular OxygenOS, now integrates the Android 16 beta 2 developer preview. The primary goal is to provide developers with early access to evaluate and enhance the software while enabling advanced users to experiment with the newest features. This early access is not advised for general users or those who lack extensive experience in software development. The installation process requires proficient handling to avoid potential device bricking.
Several enhancements and new features are expected with Android 16. However, users should be aware of the existing known issues. These include challenges such as the inability to close version update pop-ups, unadjustable font weight settings, potential device reboot during Bluetooth calls, lag and display errors in the camera viewfinder, unclear outputs, and occasional crashes when switching to certain modes. There are also reports of lag when locking the device and screen freezes when activating accessibility shortcuts. These issues are critical to note for users considering installing this preview version.
Upgrade Process and Precautions
For those in India and Europe, the upgrade process involves downloading the ROM upgrade zip package, transferring it to the phone storage, and navigating through developer settings to complete the installation. Specifically, users must enable Developer mode by tapping on the build number in the “About device” section and then proceed with the local install option. The upgrade culminates with a system restart to finalize the installation. The North American upgrade route includes installing the zip package via an APK file available on the specified server.
It is crucial to ensure that the device’s battery is at least 30% charged and that there is a minimum of 4GB of free storage space before initiating the upgrade. This beta build is compatible only with version 15.0.0.703 or lower and is not intended for carrier devices like TMO or VZW. For those who wish to revert, a rollback package is available, which enables users to return to the previous stable version based on Android 15. This step is vital for those who encounter critical issues or prefer a more stable operating environment.
Widespread Rollout and Availability
In addition to the OnePlus 13, the Android 16 beta 2 developer preview has been made available for several other prominent devices. This rollout includes OPPO’s Find X8, Realme’s GT 7 Pro, Vivo’s X200 Pro, iQOO’s 13, Xiaomi’s 15, Redmi K70 Ultra, as well as Google’s Pixel 9, 8, 7, and 6 series smartphones. This broader availability underlines the collaborative efforts within the Android ecosystem to advance development and user experience across multiple brands and devices.
Developers and advanced users across these devices can experiment with the new OS features, providing essential feedback that will help refine the final release of Android 16. This collaboration between developers and technology companies ensures that the final product is robust, user-friendly, and innovatively progressive, meeting the ever-evolving demands of modern smartphone users.
Android OS updates such as this one play a crucial role in enhancing user experience, integrating new technological advancements, and addressing existing software limitations. As technology continues to evolve rapidly, proactive development and engagement from the tech community remain essential for ensuring optimal user experiences and the seamless integration of new functionalities.
Anticipating the Future
Recently, news broke that Xiaomi’s 15 and 14T Pro smartphones were added to the Android 16 developer preview program in the global market. Building on this update, OnePlus has unveiled the Android 16 beta 2 developer preview exclusively for its flagship OnePlus 13 model. This latest release is crafted for developers and highly skilled users, providing a unique chance to delve into the new features of the upcoming Android 16 operating system.
The development builds emphasize improvements in user experience, showcasing enhancements that aim to elevate overall usability. However, caution is advised given the early and complex nature of the software. Users may encounter bugs and instability during testing. These preliminary releases are pivotal, allowing tech enthusiasts and developers to explore and contribute feedback for refinements. This collaborative effort is crucial in ironing out potential issues before the official rollout, ensuring a smoother transition to Android 16 for a wider audience upon its final release.
