Xiaomi Launches Android 16 Developer Preview for Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 14T Pro

BEIJING, April 12 Xiaomi has officially kicked off its Android 16 Developer Preview Programme, allowing developers early access to the next major Android update. The initiative is currently available for two of the company’s premium smartphones — the Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 14T Pro. This preview will help developers begin testing and optimizing apps for Android 16 ahead of its public release later in 2025.

Xiaomi Android 16 Developer Preview: Key Highlights

The Developer Preview Programme offers developers the opportunity to test out the latest features in Android 16, ahead of general availability. Xiaomi says the early access is aimed at ensuring application compatibility, feature testing, and early feedback from the developer community.

Supported Devices and Requirements

• Xiaomi 15: Must be running OS2.0.109.0.VOCMIXM or higher

• Xiaomi 14T Pro: Must be running OS2.0.103.0.VNNMIXM or higher

The programme is free to join, but users must manually install the Android 16 Beta build using either of the two official methods.

How to Install Android 16 Beta on Xiaomi Devices Method 1: Local Install

Download the Android 16 Beta build from Xiaomi’s support page.

Copy the ROM file to the phone’s internal storage.

Navigate to Settings > About phone, tap the OS version 10 times to enable developer mode.

Return to About phone > Tap the system icon > Select the three-dot menu, then choose “Select update package”.

Select the Android 16 update package and start the upgrade.

Important: This process will erase all phone data. A full backup is strongly recommended.

Method 2: Fastboot Update

This advanced method requires:

• Bootloader unlocking

• Developer permission

• Connection to a computer with Mi Flash Tool

Xiaomi warns that this method carries security and stability risks, and may lead to unexpected device behavior. Proceed only if you are an experienced user or developer.

Rollback to Official Version

Users who wish to opt out of the Android 16 Developer Preview can re-flash the stable build of MIUI or HyperOS using Xiaomi’s flashing tools.

Why It Matters

Xiaomi’s early launch of the Android 16 preview indicates its commitment to staying ahead in software innovation and developer support. With Google expected to roll out Android 16 officially by Q3 2025, this preview will help Xiaomi users and app developers gain early insights into upcoming features.