Final Android 12 Beta rolls out ahead of full release 'in the weeks ahead'

Android 12 Beta 3 Grey (Image credit: Nick Sutrich / Android Central)

What you need to know

Google rolls out the final beta release of Android 12.
Developers are encouraged to complete final app compatibility tests before the full Android 12 launch "in the weeks ahead."
The new Google Pixel 5a is eligible for Android 12 Beta 5.

Google is rolling out Android 12 Beta 5, which is the last beta release before the full version is launched.

Android 12 reached "Platform Stability" with Beta 4, so all system behaviors and APIs are already final and ready for developers to complete final app compatibility tests. That means making sure apps work with new Android 12 features like the Privacy Dashboard, new privacy toggles and indicators, the new app splash screen, and more.

While the final beta release means there shouldn't be anything particularly new coming out of Beta 5, it does mean that many of the bugs found in Beta 4 should hopefully be ironed out by now.

One notable addition to Android 12 Beta 5 is that owners of the new Google Pixel 5a are now eligible for the beta program, meaning they can test Google's upcoming OS update on the company's latest smartphone.

The Pixel 5a joins some of the best Android phones from devices manufacturers like Xiaomi, OPPO, OnePlus, and Vivo in participating in the Android 12 beta program, not to mention Google's other Pixel smartphones.

As this is the last beta, Android 12 is expected to see a full launch later this month. The company is mum on an exact date but teases that it will launch "in the weeks ahead." With that, we should hopefully expect the new Google Pixel 6 to be announced shortly after, but we'll likely learn more about that at or around the Android 12 launch.

Android 12 Beta 5 Timeline — Source: Google (Image credit: Source: Google)

If you're already on the Android 12 beta, the latest version will be available via an over-the-air update. For anyone wanting to jump onto the beta with an eligible device like the Pixel 5a, we can guide you through how to install the Android 12 beta.

Try Android 12 today

Google Pixel 5a

Energizer Pixel
The Google Pixel 5a is an affordable smartphone with amazing battery life that doesn't seem to quit. It comes with a pair of great cameras, 5G connectivity, and will be among the first to get Google's newest software updates, including Android 12.

Have you listened to this week's Android Central Podcast?

Every week, the Android Central Podcast brings you the latest tech news, analysis and hot takes, with familiar co-hosts and special guests.

Subscribe in Pocket Casts: Audio
Subscribe in Spotify: Audio
Subscribe in iTunes: Audio

Derrek is the managing editor of Android Central, helping to guide the site's editorial content and direction to reach and resonate with readers, old and new, who are just as passionate about tech as we are. He's been obsessed with mobile technology since he was 12, when he discovered the Nokia N90, and his love of flip phones and new form factors continues to this day. As a fitness enthusiast, he has always been curious about the intersection of tech and fitness. When he's not working, he's probably working out.