Android Pie Beta 4 'release candidate' now available for Pixels, making way for public launch soon
Google has just released the fourth beta of Android Pie to developers and enthusiasts, marking the final release before the final is officially unveiled as a public release. Android Pie Beta 4 isn't designed to offer much change over Beta 3, as any substantial change now would likely just be held for the public release. Instead, Beta 4 is the final reminder to app developers that APIs have been finalized and this software is a great testing ground to make sure their apps are ready to go for the new software.
Google is putting the official title of "release candidate" on this build, which means it's supposed to be stable and complete enough for regular use with "final system behaviors" and no major foreseen problems. Because of that designation, for those of us who aren't developers Beta 4 is a great way to get an early look at Android Pie with the least amount of risk prior to the official release. There won't be any big differences from Beta 3, but if you had previously only looked at the first beta or held off altogether, this will be a pretty big change for you.
If you have either generation of Google Pixel, it's simple to enroll in the Beta Program and get an over-the-air update with the latest software. You can also manually update it with your computer if you're really eager. In either case, if you need any help with the process we have a great guide to help you through it.
How to install Android Pie on your Pixel right now (and how to roll back to Oreo)
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Andrew was an Executive Editor, U.S. at Android Central between 2012 and 2020.