How to install Android N Developer Preview 3 on Nexus 5X

A step-by-step guide to install Android N Developer Preview 3 on Google Nexus 5X.

Google has just rolled out the factory image for the third iteration of Android N Developer Preview for Google Nexus 5X as avid Android fans still await its final release.

The Android N Preview 3 is reportedly more stable than its previous builds while Google is yet to decide the dessert name based on fan popularity for its latest iteration of mobile operating-system.

Those who cannot wait for the Android N public release for their Nexus 5X can go ahead and install the Preview 3, using the step-by-step guide posted below.

Key Points to Remember

  • The download links and instructions provided in this guide are limited to Google Nexus 5X only. Attempting this procedure on any other device could inadvertently brick or permanently damage the device.
  • Ensure USB debugging is enabled on the device via Developer Options section. If the option is hidden or disabled, go to Settings > About Phone and tap 7 times on the Build Number. Now the USB debugging option should be accessible under Settings.
  • Make sure that you have backed up all your important data as this process will wipe out all user data on the phone during the factory reset process.
  • Verify that the phone has at least 80% battery charge, just to prevent unexpected device shutdown during the installation process.

Downloads Required

Android SDK package

USB drivers for Nexus 5X

Android N factory image for Nexus 5X

How to install and configure Android SDK

  • Download Android SDK package and install it on your computer
  • Now open the SDK installation directory, locate SDK manager.exe and launch it
  • Download the necessary SDK packages and USB drivers via SDK Manager
  • Browse and locate the freshly created platform-tools folder. It should be inside the SDK installation directory.

How to install Android N Preview 3 factory image on Nexus 5X

  • Download the Android N factory image from the download links provided.
  • Once the download is complete, you can extract the archived files on your PC to the platform-tools folder.
  • Power off the Nexus 5X.
  • Boot the device into Fastboot or Bootloader mode. Without selecting any fastboot options just leave the Fastboot main menu opened on your phone's screen.
  • Plug-in your device to the computer via USB cable.
  • Go to platform-tools folder and start the Factory Image installation by double-clicking on the flash-all.bat script. Then confirm the flashing process. Leave the screen alone until all the files are installed.
  • Wait until the installation is done and you will get a confirmation alert in the command prompt window.
  • Disconnect the device from the computer once the installation finishes.

[Source: Android Geeks]

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