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Summary: Xiaomi has reportedly released the Android 16 Developer Preview for the Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 14T Pro. The latest update allows developers to test their apps on the new OS. If they want to install the update, you must ensure both smartphones run on specific OS versions. They can locally update these devices or try the complex Fastboot method.
The development of Android 16 is in full swing. Last month, Google released Android 16 Beta 3, and followed with Android 16 Beta 3.2 earlier this month, which addressed a few known bugs. This tells that the search giant is running ahead of the usual schedule this year with Android 16. Now, Xiaomi is joining the race early, as it has reportedly released the Android 16 Developer Preview for two of its smartphones.
Xiaomi has released the Android 16 Developer Preview to the Xiaomi 15 and 14T Pro
Xiaomi has chosen the Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 14T Pro for testing. It’s worth noting that the choice of two smartphones is rather interesting. The Xiaomi 15 is the brand’s latest smartphone that runs on Android 15 and packs the Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC.
On the other hand, the Xiaomi 14T Pro launched with Android 14 and the MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ SoC under the hood. Well, there’s no mention of the reason for dropping the Android 16 Developer Preview for smartphones on two different platforms.
However, we assume that it’s Xiaomi’s way of saying that it will treat smartphones on both platforms—Qualcomm and MediaTek—equally when it comes to software updates. As the name suggests, this update is intended for developers. They can test their apps on Android 16 and make the most of new features and APIs.
How to install the update
If you want to try the beta, make sure that the Xiaomi 15 is running on OS2.0.109.0.VOCMIXM or later. Those with the Xiaomi 14T must ensure that it is running on OS2.0.103.0.VNNMIXM or later. Once installed, you will be able to install Android 16 Developer Preview on both Xiaomi smartphones using two methods.
The first one involves local updating, where you are required to download the ROMs from Xiaomi’s Android Beta page. Once downloaded, head to the Settings and choose the ROM you want to install. On the other hand, the second method is somewhat complex and requires you to have some sort of technical knowledge.
You’ll have to go through Fastboot and need an unlocked bootloader. Don’t forget, flashing the update will wipe all the data from your device, so it’s best to back it up first. If you come across any issues with the software during the testing phase, you can report them to Xiaomi using the Android Beta Feedback app.