The final build is expected to arrive later this summer

Mar 10, 2016 21:09 GMT  ·  By

In a surprising move, Google has released a beta version of the Android N operating system, which was supposed to be officially unveiled at I/O conference in May.

The search giant hasn't yet decided on a moniker for the mobile platform, which means it will be known as Android N until Google announces the market name.

According to Google's Hiroshi Lockheimer, “by releasing the first preview and asking for your feedback now, we’ll be able to act on that feedback while still being able hand off the final N release to device makers this summer, so they can get their hands on the latest version of Android earlier than ever.”

Android N represents the earliest preview yet, which will allow beta testers to provide feedback for a longer period. Developers will also get more time to add support for all the new Android N features and improvements to their apps.

Aside from that, Google is now making it easier for Nexus owners to install Android N on their devices. So if you want to install Android N, you will have to enroll in a new program called the Android Beta Program.

Only four smartphones compatible

Starting today, Android N is available for download for the following devices: Nexus 6, Nexus 5x, Nexus 6P, General Mobile 4G (Android One), Nexus Player, Nexus 9, and Pixel C. You can download the developer preview of Android N OTA (over the air) via g.co/androidbeta.

The update is around 1GB in size, so make sure you have enough free space and that your handset is connected to a Wi-Fi network. Keep in mind that it might take some time for the update to install, but when it's done, your Nexus device will reboot.

Although many Nexus devices are missing from the list of supported Android N devices, we believe more will be added when the new version of the mobile platform gets released later this summer.