Google Pixel 9a Is Now Eligible for Android 16 Beta Programme

The Pixel 9a joins other handsets in Google's smartphone lineup which are eligible for the Android 16 Beta Programme.

Written by Shaurya Tomer, Edited by Siddharth Suvarna | Updated: 18 April 2025 13:51 IST

Highlights

Beta testers can now install Android 16 Beta 4 on Google Pixel 9a
The eligiblity list now includes phones from Pixel 6 to Pixel 9 models
Beta updates may affect device stability and thus, caution is advised

Google Pixel 9a will likely one of the first phones to receive Android 16

Google released the Android 16 Beta 4 update on Thursday with several fixes for several bugs in tow. However, it also brings crucial news for owners of the latest Google Pixel 9a. As per the Mountain View-based tech giant, the handset, which was launched on March 19, is now eligible for the Android 16 Beta Programme. This enables developers and beta testers who have the Pixel 9a to download the fourth Android 16 Beta on their phone and test out their applications before the operating system (OS) is widely made available.

Android 16 Beta 4 for the Pixel 9a

Google's release notes mention the Pixel 9a in the list of devices that are eligible to receive the latest Android 16 Beta 4 update. With its addition, the entire Pixel 9 lineup is said to be compatible with the beta version of the upcoming OS. The revised eligibility list of the Android Beta Programme is as follows:

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

If you've enrolled your Google Pixel 9a or other handsets in the lineup in the company's beta programme, you should automatically receive an over-the-air update. Updates are usually released in a phased approach and thus, may take a couple of days to be available to all beta testers. To check for the Android 16 Beta update, navigate to the Settings app > System > Software update > System update > Check for updates.

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Once installed, the device will reboot to complete the process.

Alternatively, Google also allows you to flash the factory image of the Android 16 Beta 4 on your Pixel. However, this is not a straightforward process and requires some expertise. It is to be noted that beta updates are severely less stable than standard software updates. They may have bugs or glitches that could hamper the device's usability. Thus, users must proceed with caution. Further, it is not advisable to install the beta update on the primary device.

Google Pixel 9A FAQs

What are the main features of the Google Pixel 9a?

The Google Pixel 9a is available with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. It features a dual rear camera setup with a 48MP wide camera and a 13MP ultrawide camera, along with a 13MP front selfie camera. The smartphone supports 23W fast charging and packs a 5,100mAh battery. It is powered by the Google Tensor G4 processor and comes with a 6.3-inch pOLED display that supports a refresh rate ranging from 60Hz to 120Hz. The Google Pixel 9a is available in Obsidian, Porcelain, and Iris colour options.

When was the Google Pixel 9a released?

The Google Pixel 9a was launched on April 16, 2025.

Where can I buy the Google Pixel 9a?

You can buy the Google Pixel 9a through the official Google website, e-commerce platforms such as Amazon, Flipkart and select retail stores across India.