Flash with Android Flash Tool

Android Flash Tool is a web-based tool that lets you flash an Android build to your device for development and testing.

Minimum requirements

In addition to the requirements for a development workstation, you must have a browser supporting WebUSB, such as Chrome or Edge 79+.

Devices

You can flash a new version of Android to these supported devices:

Prepare your device

Before you can flash a build to your device, you must prepare your device:

  1. Enable Developer options and USB debugging.
  2. Enable OEM Unlocking in the Developer options menu. If your bootloader is already unlocked, this option is grayed out with Bootloader is already unlocked.
  3. If you're having trouble enabling OEM Unlocking, make sure:
    • Your device is connected to the internet.
    • Your device has checked in with Google, which may not be the case just because your device recently connected to the internet. To force a check in, enter *#*#CHECKIN#*#* (*#*#2432546#*#*) in the Dialer (no SIM required). After entering the number (no need to press call), the text disappears and a success notification appears.

Flash your device

  1. If you have Android Debug Bridge (adb) installed on your machine, stop the adb service before proceeding so that it doesn't interfere with the flashing process. To stop adb, run:

    $ adb kill-server
    
  2. Connect your device directly to your development machine (no hubs, adapters, extenders, or monitors).

  3. In a browser on your development workstation, open flash.android.com. The Welcome page appears.

  4. Allow the flash tool to communicate with your test device through adb by accepting the dialog that says Allow site access to your ADB keys in order to communicate with devices.

  5. Click Add new device.

  6. Select your device from the list and click Connect. This list may not contain the full device name.

  7. On your device's screen, select Always allow from this computer and click OK to accept the USB debugging connection.

  8. Select the connected device in your browser.

  9. Search for and select your build from the list. You can also select options, such as wiping the device or force flashing all partitions.

  10. To start flashing, click Install. The device reboots and enters fastboot mode.

  11. After "Flash Complete" appears, disconnect the device from the USB cable.

Resolve USB transfer errors

Sometimes Android devices have trouble communicating through certain USB ports or hubs due to the high throughput of data. To resolve transfer errors:

  • Don't use USB hubs. This includes connections through monitors.
  • Don't use USB extension cables or adapters if possible.
  • Try a different USB port. Rear ports are often more reliable than front ones.
  • If you're using a USB C port, try a USB A port instead.

Return Pixel to public build

If you want to return your Pixel device to a public build, use the Android Flash Tool back-to-public option.