Download and Install Android 15 GSI on Any Android Phone

Android 15, the latest operating system from Google, has officially launched for eligible Google Pixel devices as of October 2024. This update introduces many new features, improvements, and optimizations, solidifying Android’s position as a cutting-edge mobile OS. While Pixel devices have already received the update, many non-Pixel Android devices may not be compatible with Android 15 or have to wait for manufacturer-specific updates.

Android’s open-source nature allows users to bypass these limitations using Generic System Images (GSI). Google releases GSI files with every major Android version, enabling users to install the latest Android OS on non-Pixel devices, including older models no longer officially supported. This guide will walk you through downloading and installing Android 15 GSI on any compatible Android phone, giving you access to the latest features without relying on your manufacturer’s update timeline.

What is Android GSI?

A Generic System Image (GSI) is a system image file, designed by Google that supports any Android device with Project Treble. It allows users to install the latest Android OS version (vanilla) even without getting interfered with by the device manufacturer. If your Android device runs on Android 8.0 Oreo or later, you can flash the GSI package to enjoy the latest available Android OS.

It means even if your specific device model isn’t eligible to receive the latest Android OS update officially, the GSI flash will open the doors for you. To flash the Android GSI file, your device bootloader should be unlocked.

Please Note: Bootloader unlocking process wipes out the full data from your handset. So, ensure to take a full data backup before getting into this process. If something goes wrong, you can at least have a backup of your precious data.

Android 15 Features

Android 15 is the latest operating system, succeeding Android 14, and it brings a more optimized, responsive, and seamless user experience. With numerous new features and enhancements, Android 15 continues to push the boundaries of mobile innovation. Here’s a quick look at some of the standout features of Android 15:

1. Notification Cooldown
   This feature minimizes notification sounds to reduce distractions while ensuring that high-priority notifications get your attention when needed.
2. Partial Screen Sharing
   Share specific parts of your screen within app windows, enhancing privacy and focused collaboration.
3. Lock Screen Widgets
   Reviving a popular feature, Android 15 introduces lock screen widgets to provide quick access to key apps and information directly from your lock screen.
4. Battery Health Percentage
   Track your battery’s health with a detailed percentage indicator, giving you better insights into its lifespan and performance.
5. App Archive
   Free up space without losing app data by archiving unused applications. You can restore them anytime without needing to set them up again.
6. Satellite Connectivity
   Stay connected even in remote areas with satellite-based networking, supporting messaging and emergency services.
7. Bluetooth Popup Dialog
   Quickly manage connected Bluetooth devices with a streamlined popup dialog from the quick settings menu.
8. Private Space
   Compete with Samsung’s Secure Folder using Private Space, a secure environment to hide apps and data accessible via a password or biometric lock.
9. Continuity Features for Foldables
   Customize app continuity on foldable devices, deciding whether apps should remain active on the outer display or transition to the main screen.
10. Enhanced Privacy and Security
    Android 15 takes privacy to the next level with Privacy Sandbox, limiting data sharing with third-party apps and protecting sensitive user information.

Other improvements include in-app camera controls, predictive back gestures, enriched widget previews, and more robust system integration. Android 15 is designed to make your device smarter, more secure, and user-friendly than ever.

Download and Install Android 15 GSI on Any Android Phone

So, if you’re interested in installing the Android 15 GSI package, ensure to follow this full guide. So, without further ado, let’s jump into it.

Pre-Requisites:

1. Check Device Compatibility:
   • Your device must support Project Treble and run Android 8.0 Oreo or higher.
   • Verify your device’s compatibility using the Treble Info app (available on the Play Store).
2. Prepare Your Device:
   • Charge your phone to at least 50% to avoid interruptions.
   • Take a full data backup to prevent data loss.
   • Unlock the bootloader (this will erase all data).
   • Enable USB Debugging and OEM Unlocking:
     • Go to Settings > About Phone > Tap Build Number seven times to enable Developer Options.
     • Navigate to Settings > Developer Options and enable USB Debugging and OEM Unlocking.
3. Prepare Your Computer:
   • Install the latest ADB & Fastboot Platform Tools on your PC/Mac.
   • Install the Android USB Drivers for your device.
   • Download the following:
     • Android 15 GSI file (choose the correct variant for your device architecture).
     • vbmeta.img file.

Download Links:

Date: January 9, 2025
Build: BP11.241121.013
Security patch level: December 2024
Google Play Services: 24.45.32

Android 15 QPR1 Beta	Download Links
ARM64 + GMS	Download
ARM64	Download
x86_64 + GMS	Download
x86_64	Download

Warning: We at GetDroidTips won’t be held responsible for any issue you may face during or after this process. So, proceed at your own risk. Data backup should be done first to avoid data losses.

Installation Steps

Step-by-Step Installation Guide:

1. Install the Treble Info App:
   • Download the Treble Info app from the Play Store and check if your device supports Project Treble.
2. Set Up Your PC and Device:
   • Connect your device to the computer using a USB cable.
   • Open the Platform Tools folder on your PC.
   • Copy the system.img and vbmeta.img files into the Platform Tools folder.
3. Open Command Prompt:
   • Inside the Platform Tools folder, type cmd in the address bar and press Enter. This will launch the Command Prompt.
4. Reboot to Fastboot Mode:
   • In the Command Prompt, execute the following command to reboot your device into Fastboot mode:

     adb reboot bootloader

5. Disable AVB (Android Verified Boot):
   • Run the following command to disable verification:

     fastboot --disable-verity --disable-verification flash vbmeta vbmeta.img

6. Erase System Partition:
   • Execute the command below to erase the system partition:

     fastboot erase system
7. Flash the Android 15 GSI File:
   • Flash the downloaded GSI system image using the following command:

     fastboot flash system system.img

8. Erase User Data:
   • Erase user data to avoid compatibility issues:

     fastboot -w

9. Reboot Your Device:
   • Finally, reboot your device into the new Android 15 OS:

     fastboot reboot

Post-Installation Steps:

1. Wait for the device to boot into Android 15 for the first time (this may take several minutes).
2. Complete the initial setup process.
3. Explore the new features of Android 15!

Important Notes:

• Beta Software Disclaimer: The Android 15 GSI Beta build might contain bugs or stability issues. Use it at your own risk and consider flashing it on a secondary device if possible.
• Backup Recommendation: Always back up your important data before starting the process to avoid data loss.

Conclusion

By following this step-by-step guide, you can successfully install Android 15 GSI on your Android device. For any issues or queries, feel free to leave a comment below. Enjoy the latest features and improvements Android 15 offers!