The Android 15 update has finally arrived, and most of the users have already received the update via OTA. However, some users are still waiting for Over-the-Air (OTA) updates and looking for a manual way to update the device. If you want to skip the queue and manually update Google Pixel Smartphone to Android 15, there are several ways to do it. In this guide, we’ll walk you through sideloading an OTA update, flashing a factory image, and using the Android Flash Tool to ensure your device is running the latest version without delay.
How to Manually Update Google Pixel Smartphone to Android 15
Updating your Google Pixel smartphone to Android 15 manually gives you control over when and how you receive new features. Whether you choose sideloading, flashing a factory image, or using the Android Flash Tool, these methods allow you to bypass the waiting game and enjoy the latest updates immediately. If you’re comfortable following the steps outlined above, you’ll have Android 15 running on your Pixel in no time!
Method 1: How to Sideload an OTA Update on Google Pixel to Android 15
If you’re eager to update your Google Pixel to Android 15, sideloading the OTA update manually is a reliable method. Follow the steps to Sideload Android 15 OTA Update on Google Pixel.
Step 1: Prerequisites
- Download the latest ADB and fastboot tool from the Android SDK Platform-Tools package.
- Ensure USB access is configured for your Pixel as described in the official guide to run apps on hardware devices.
- Enable Developer Options and turn on USB debugging.
Step 2: Verify No Pending OTA Updates
Before proceeding, make sure there isn’t a pending update by navigating to Settings > About phone > System updates. It should say “Your system is up to date.”
Step 3: Download and Verify the OTA Image
- Download the OTA Image for your specific Pixel model from here.
- Verifying the checksum will save time if the file is incomplete or corrupted.
Step 4: Boot into Recovery Mode
- Using ADB Command:
- With the device powered on and USB debugging enabled, open the command prompt or terminal and execute:
adb reboot recovery
- With the device powered on and USB debugging enabled, open the command prompt or terminal and execute:
- Using Key Combination:
- If you can’t use ADB, turn off the device and press Power + Volume Down to access the bootloader.
- Use the Volume buttons to navigate to Recovery Mode and press Power to select.
- When you see the Android logo with a red exclamation mark, press Power + Volume Up once to reveal the recovery menu.
- Enter Sideload Mode:
- In the recovery menu, select “Apply update from ADB.”
Step 5: Verify Device Connection
- Run the following command in the terminal to ensure your device is detected:
adb devices
- The device should appear with “sideload” next to its name.
Step 6: Sideload the OTA Update
- Execute the command below, replacing ota_file.zip with the name of your downloaded OTA file:
adb sideload ota_file.zip
- The update process will take some time. Once finished, your device will prompt you to reboot.
Step 7: Reboot the Device
- Choose “Reboot system now” from the recovery menu.
- Your Pixel will restart, running Android 15.
Method 2: Install Android 15 Factory Image on Google Pixel
Here’s a concise guide on how to flash an Android 15 factory image on your Google Pixel device using the information you’ve provided:
Step 1: Prerequisites
- Download the latest ADB and fastboot tool from the Android SDK Platform-Tools package.
- Ensure USB access is configured for your Pixel as described in the official guide to run apps on hardware devices.
- Enable Developer Options and turn on USB debugging.
Step 2: Download and Unzip the Factory Image
- Download the appropriate factory image for your Pixel and unzip it to a safe directory.
Step 3: Connect and Boot into Fastboot Mode
- Connect your Pixel to your computer using a USB cable.
- Unlock the Bootloader (if necessary): For newer Pixel/Nexus devices (2015 or later):
fastboot flashing unlock
- For older devices:
fastboot oem unlock
- Confirm the unlock on your device. This will erase all data.
Step 4: Execute the Flash Script
- Open a terminal (or command prompt) and change to the directory where you unzipped the factory image.
- Run the appropriate script: For Windows:
flash-all.bat
- For Linux/Mac:
./flash-all.sh
Step 5: Lock the Bootloader
- Once the flashing process finishes, your device will reboot automatically.
- Lock the Bootloader (optional for security) by Boot into fastboot mode again and execute:
fastboot flashing lock
- For older devices:
fastboot oem lock
Method 3: How to Use the Android Flash Tool to Install Android 15
The Android Flash Tool simplifies the process of flashing Android onto recent Pixel phones and some Android development devices. Follow these steps to manually install Android 15 on Pixel devices using the Android Flash Tool.
Step 1: Connect Your Device
- Connect your Pixel phone or compatible device to your computer using a USB cable.
- Ensure USB Debugging is enabled in Settings > Developer options.
Step 2: Select the Software to Install
- Open the Android Flash Tool in your browser.
- Choose the Android build you wish to install from the available options.
Step 3: Install the Software on Your Device
- Follow the prompts to begin the installation.
- Wait for the tool to flash the selected Android build onto your device.
- Once the installation is complete, reboot your device to finalize the update.
Wrapping Up: How to install Android 15 on Google Pixel
You may get instant access to the newest features, security updates, and performance boosts by manually updating your Google Pixel smartphone to Android 15. This can be a gratifying experience. You may take command of the software on your smartphone by using these techniques, which include sideloading an OTA update, flashing a factory image, and using the Android Flash Tool.
Always remember to back up your data before proceeding with any update, as some methods may erase your files. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently update your Pixel to the latest Android version without the wait. Embrace the new features and enjoy an enhanced user experience on your Google Pixel device!
