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Android 11 hits Samsung devices; here’s how to download Android 11

Christian de Looper
Mark Jansen
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Android 11 may have been out on Pixel phones for a while — pretty much since’s Google’s online I/O event — but as always, it takes a little while for the latest version of Android to find its way to other phone manufacturers. However, the rollout is getting there, and the latest phones to receive the latest version of Android are Samsung’s latest flagship devices. So if you’re rocking a Samsung device, go down the article to find out how you can check for the update.

Of course, not every phone has received the update yet, but a number of those can still access the Android 11 beta. But it’s important to note that only some people should download the beta for themselves. It’s generally not a good idea to download the beta to the phone you use on a day-to-day basis, and most average people should wait until the final version of the software is available for your phone. That’s because the beta version will likely have a number of bugs and issues, and may break certain aspects of your phone’s software.

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Here’s how to download and install Android 11, as well as how to access the Android 11 public beta if you’re anxious to try it out.

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Phones compatible with Android 11 and the Android 11 public beta

Google Pixel 4a Camera Module
Andy Boxall/Digital Trends

Before installing Android 11, it’s worth making sure you have a phone that’s actually compatible. We have a full and constantly updated list of smartphones with Android 11, but at launch, only certain phones are compatible with Android 11. Check our list of Android 11 devices to see if your phone is eligible for the updated version.

But even if you don’t have it yet, you have the option of installing the Android 11 beta instead. These devices have access to the beta.

Phones compatible with the Android 11 public beta

How to install Android 11

If your phone has been given the green light to update to Android 11, then it’s really easy to update. Make sure you’re doing this during a time when you won’t need your phone, as it can take a little time to complete and your phone will not be available for normal use during the update.

  1. Head to your Settings app, and scroll down until you see System.
  2. Tap System > Advanced > System update.
  3. Tap Check for update, and then the Download and install button.
  4. You may also need to confirm that you want to download and install it now, rather than waiting for your phone’s downtime.
  5. Feel free to use your phone normally while the update is downloaded. Once it’s downloaded and ready to install, you can tap on the notification to begin the process.
  6. Your phone will restart and update to Android 11.

If you’re using a Samsung device, like the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra, then the update path is slightly different.

  1. Open the Settings app, and scroll down to Software update.
  2. Tap Download and install to check whether you need to update.
  3. If there’s no update waiting to be installed, then it’ll say Your software is up to date. If not, you’ll be prompted to Download and install the update.
  4. You can continue using your phone normally while the update is downloaded. Once it’s downloaded and ready to install, you can tap on the notification to begin the process, or select the option that schedules the update for early in the morning.
  5. Your phone will restart and update to Android 11 when the installation is triggered. This can take a while, so make sure you don’t need your phone.

How to install the Android 11 beta

So you don’t have the final release yet, but you’re anxious to try out the Android 11 beta instead. Thankfully, Google makes installing the public beta relatively easy. Here’s a rundown:

  1. Head to the Android 11 beta website.
  2. Press the View your eligible devices button.
  3. If you have an eligible phone, you should see a picture of it with an Opt in button. Press that button.
  4. Tick the appropriate boxes and press Join beta.
  5. You’ll get a notice telling you that your device is now a part of the Android 11 public beta.
  6. On your phone, head to Settings > System > Advanced > System updates.
  7. There should be an update available. Press the Install button.

Once the update is installed, you should have access to all the new features available in the software. As mentioned, it’s important to keep in mind that there will be bugs.

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