Google’s Android 8.1 update is a pretty big one, but it only takes a few minutes to download and install on your Nexus or Pixel device.
The Android 8.1 Oreo update is out of beta and is widely available for the Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Pixel C, Pixel, Pixel XL, Pixel 2, and Pixel 2 XL.
It is the first major update to Google’s Android Oreo operating system and offers new features, enhancements, patches and bug fixes.
Android 8.1 is a pretty big download, and Pixel and Nexus users looking to upgrade right now are looking at 1GB-1.5GB downloads.
While some Nexus and Pixel users should wait for OTA or long-term feedback to come, most of you should be upgrading from Android 8.0 to Android 8.1 in the near future.
If you decide to download Android 8.1 on your Pixel or Nexus device, you will want to take some time to complete the download and installation. Moving from one Android version to another can be problematic, so you’ll want to keep distractions to a minimum.
We can’t tell you exactly how long your Android 8.1 upgrade will take, as download times will vary from person to person, device to device. However, when you decide to download and install Android 8.1 Oreo on your phone or tablet, we can help you determine the approximate amount of time you need to devote to it.
If you’re already ready for Android 8.1, the whole process might take 10 to 15 minutes. If you’re not prepared or unfamiliar with the setup process, the transition can take much longer.
| Task | Time |
|---|---|
| Backup (Optional) | 1-30 Minutes |
| Android 8.1 Download | 3-15 Minutes |
| Android 8.1 Update | 5-10 Minutes |
| Total Android 8.1 Update Time | 10 Minutes to 1 Hour |
Prepare for Android 8.1
Before you download Android 8.1 on your Nexus or Pixel device, you’ll want to be prepared. A little prep work will go a long way in preventing problems. And yes, Android 8.1 has issues.
If you don’t know where to start, we’ve prepared a step-by-step guide to the pre-installation process. We use this process every time Google releases a new Android update.
The time it takes you to prepare will depend on your skill level and how well you take care of your device. Average users will need a little more time, while power users will be able to handle this in minutes.
If you haven’t backed up local files on your Nexus or Pixel device, contact your company’s IT department (if applicable) or the pre-installation process may take you through if you haven’t reviewed the changes and issues in Android 8.1. 20 minutes or longer.
You don’t need to follow every step, but please make sure all your files are backed up. There’s always the possibility that something could go wrong and it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Android 8.1 Download Time
If you’re planning to manually install Android 8.1 on your Pixel, Pixel 2, Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P or Pixel C, you’re looking at a pretty big download.
Android 8.1 factory images Required to sideload the 1-1.5GB size software control. The exact download size will depend on your device.
If you have a fast Wi-Fi connection, you can download them in about three minutes. If your internet connection is slow, it may take about 10. Mileage will of course vary.
The Android 8.1 OTA file is slightly smaller, at 531 MB for the Pixel 2, so the download should be slightly faster. It took us about a minute to download over Wi-Fi.
Android 8.1 Installation Time
Depending on your situation, your Android 8.1 installation time may take more than an hour.
If you’re planning to manually install Android 8.1 on your Nexus or Pixel device and are currently running an official version of Android 8.1, you’re looking at a pretty short install provided you know what you’re doing.
We were able to flash the Android 8.1 update and run it on our Pixel within 15 minutes. Here’s how we were able to do that.
If you’re currently running Android 8.1 Developer Preview 2 and want to manually install Android 8.1 right now, you’re looking at a longer install process because you must unenroll from the beta program and wipe your phone. This also means that you need to make appropriate backups. If you do not back up your data, it will be lost.
It took us about 30 minutes to get everything in order and about 15 minutes to complete the manual Android 8.1 installation on our Nexus 5X.
As for the OTA installation time, this process usually takes no more than 10 minutes to complete on Nexus and Pixel phones. If you’re running Developer Preview 2 on your Nexus or Pixel and don’t want to spend too much time installing Android 8.1, wait for the OTA. It will take the shortest time.
Google will release Android 8.1 to Pixel and Nexus users throughout December.
Post install
After your Android 8.1 installation is complete, you may need to spend time logging back into your various accounts and services. This is common after a major Android update. Depending on the number of apps and services you use on your phone or tablet, this may take a few minutes.
We recommend testing your core apps and services to make sure they work properly with Android 8.1. Sometimes new Android updates cause apps to spiral out of control. If something breaks, check for an update in the Play Store. If that doesn’t work, contact the developer.
You’ll want to spend some time checking your important data (photos, video music, etc.) to make sure it’s properly stored on your Nexus or Pixel device.
You’ll also want to keep track of bugs and monitor your device’s performance (battery life, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, etc.). Android 8.1 shouldn’t cause major problems, but there’s always a chance something will pop up.
If you run into an issue with Android 8.1, take a look at our list of fixes for common Oreo issues.
