Chinese manufacturing giant Xiaomi is now part of Google’s early rollout of Android 16. This rollout will bring the Beta 2 of the new system to some of its top mobile phones. This is quite interesting for non-Pixel users. It is the first time that Google has expanded beta access beyond its Pixel phones. The Android 16-powered HyperOS 2.0 update, initially limited to China, is now available globally for the Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 14T Pro. These handsets are among the few non-Pixel smartphones currently eligible to test Google’s next major Android release, which is expected to be officially launched in June 2025.
If you own one of the supported Xiaomi models and are eager to try the new features early, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, including device compatibility, installation methods, and essential precautions.
Eligible Xiaomi devices and build details
At the moment, only two Xiaomi flagship mobile phones are eligible for the Android 16 Beta 2 update. These devices are the Xiaomi 15 and the Xiaomi 14T Pro. In addition, the model needs to be on a specific software version to qualify for a successful update. The required builds are:
- Xiaomi 15: OS2.0.250327.1.WOCMIXM.PRE-DPP
- Xiaomi 14T Pro: OS2.0.250327.1.WNNMIXM.PRE-DPP
Furthermore, users of the Xiaomi 15 should ensure that their device is running OS 2.0.109.0. Users of the Xiaomi 14T Pro should confirm that OS 2.0.103.0 is installed on their device. Before attempting the installation, it is crucial to verify this. The installation might not go through, or the system might become unstable if the devices are not using these base versions.
Method 1: Local update for Android 16
The easiest way to install Android 16 Beta 2 on Xiaomi devices is through the built-in local update method. Users can access this via the phone’s settings. This method does not require a PC or fastboot tools. This makes it a suitable choice for most users. Here are the basic steps to use this method
-
The first step is to back up your data. This is a mandatory step, as the update process will wipe all content from your phone.
-
Then download the correct Android 16 Beta ROM from Xiaomi’s official website. Please ensure that you choose the file that corresponds to your device model and region.
-
After that, copy the ROM file to your phone’s internal storage.
-
Then open Settings → About phone and tap the “OS version” label 10 times to activate Developer Mode.
-
Then go back to “About Phone” and tap the system icon, then tap the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
-
Select “Choose update package”, then locate and select the downloaded ROM file.
-
Confirm the update to begin the installation process.
After completing the steps above, the device will reboot and begin optimizing apps and settings under the new Android 16-based HyperOS 2.0 system.
Method 2: Fastboot update (advanced users only)
This method is more advanced, and we only recommend it for users with tech knowledge. If you are familiar with bootloader unlocking and fastboot tools, then you can attempt this option. It is particularly useful if the device isn’t responding well to local update attempts or if a clean install is preferred.
-
The first step is to request and receive bootloader unlock permission from Xiaomi.
-
Then, back up all important data – the fastboot process involves a complete factory reset.
-
Download the fastboot version of the Android 16 Beta build for your device.
-
Follow Xiaomi’s official Fastboot Update tutorial. It includes connecting your device to a PC, entering Fastboot mode, and flashing the firmware using Mi Flash Tool or similar utilities.
To enter Fastboot mode, power off the phone and then press and hold the Volume Down + Power buttons together for about 5 seconds. From there, follow the on-screen instructions or those provided in the fastboot tutorial to proceed.
Precautions before upgrading
Irrespective of the method of upgrade that you choose, there are some things you need to know. Please note that beta updates like this one are usually unstable and may contain bugs. These bugs may affect the battery life, camera, connectivity and overall app compatibility. It could be so bad that the phone will not be suitable for everyday use.
The idea behind the beta testing is that when you spot these issues, you can report them to Xiaomi. You can also submit suggestions using the Android Beta Feedback app that comes pre-installed with the Developer Preview ROM.
What is new in Android 16
The Android 16 Developer Preview and Beta 2 builds bring several noteworthy improvements and features. These features hint at the direction Google is taking with the next major OS version. Some of the upgrades include
- Bluetooth LE Audio Sharing: Enables low-latency audio sharing to multiple compatible devices simultaneously.
- Screen-off Fingerprint Access: Allows fingerprint scanner use even when the display is off, making access faster and more secure.
- Enhanced large-screen support: Improves app layouts and multitasking on foldables and tablets.
- Live Updates: Tracks active events such as food deliveries or ride-share status in real-time.
- Advanced Professional Video (APV) codec: Designed for higher-quality video playback and recording with better compression.
- Extra Dim mode: A new accessibility feature in the Display settings that further reduces brightness for low-light environments.
- Google Wallet shortcut: A new double-press power button shortcut for instant access to Google Wallet.
Other brands joining the Android 16 beta
Xiaomi is not the only Android brand that is now part of Google’s early rollout. OnePlus has also announced that the upcoming OnePlus 13 will be the first OnePlus phone eligible to receive Android 16 Beta 2. Also, South Korean brand Samsung will join the beta program. There are already reports that Android 16-based OneUI 8 will debut alongside the Galaxy Z7 series.
Conclusion
Installing Android 16 Beta on your Xiaomi device offers early access to Google’s newest features, but it comes with risks. The beta is intended for developers and enthusiasts, not casual users. If you rely on your device for daily use, consider waiting for the stable version, which Xiaomi plans to release around June 2025.
For those ready to test the future of Android, Xiaomi’s HyperOS 2.0 provides a unique blend of the new OS with the company’s software customizations. Just make sure to follow the instructions carefully, back up your data, and be prepared for occasional bugs and performance issues.
