# How to Downgrade Your Google Pixel via the Android Flash Tool
## Introduction
Keeping your Google Pixel updated with the latest software releases is crucial for its security and accessing new features. However, an update sometimes results in unanticipated glitches or performance setbacks. If you’ve recently updated your Pixel and are facing challenges, you may consider reverting to a previous Android version.
Google offers an official method for downgrading updates through the **Android Flash Tool**, but the procedure demands a level of technical proficiency and comes with certain risks. This guide will outline the steps required to securely downgrade your Google Pixel.
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## **Key Points to Consider Before Downgrading**
### **1. Confirm Your Pixel is Unlocked**
Before moving forward, ensure your Pixel is **carrier unlocked**. If your device was obtained through a carrier such as AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile, it might be locked, preventing you from downgrading. If your carrier will not unlock it, this guide won’t apply to your device.
### **2. Backup Your Data**
Downgrading will **erase all content** on your device. To prevent the loss of critical files, make sure to have a backup in place.
#### **Steps to Back Up Your Google Pixel**
1. Open **Settings**.
2. Tap on **”Back up or copy data”**.
3. Confirm that the correct **Google account** is selected.
4. Activate **Google One backup** (if not already active).
5. Tap **”Backup Now”** and keep your device connected until the backup is done.
Google One Backup covers app data, SMS, call history, device settings, and Google account data. Additionally, consider backing up your photos via **Google Photos** or another cloud service.
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## **Step 1: Prepare Your Pixel for Downgrading**
Because reverting an update is not just a matter of clicking a button, you must enable **Developer Options** and **OEM Unlocking** first.
### **Activate Developer Options and OEM Unlocking**
1. Open **Settings**.
2. Scroll down to **About phone**.
3. Locate **Build number** and tap it **seven times** until a message indicates Developer Options are enabled.
4. Return to **Settings** and select **System**.
5. Scroll down and click on **Developer options**.
6. Turn on **USB debugging**.
7. Enable **OEM unlocking** (your device may request a restart).
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## **Step 2: Connect Your Pixel to a Computer**
For this stage, you will need:
– A **Windows, Mac, or Linux computer**.
– A **USB-C cable** for connecting your phone.
### **Download and Set Up the Android Flash Tool**
1. Open your web browser and navigate to the **[Google Pixel Factory Images page](https://developers.google.com/android/images)**.
2. Choose your **Pixel model** from the listing.
3. Scroll down to locate the **Android version** you wish to install.
4. Click on the **Flash link** adjacent to your desired version.
5. A pop-up will appear requesting **ADB access**—select **Allow**.
### **Connect Your Phone to the Computer**
1. Use a **USB-C cable** to connect your Pixel to the computer.
2. A **USB Debugging prompt** will appear on your phone. Choose **Always allow from this computer**, then tap **Allow**.
3. On your computer, select **Add new device** and choose your Pixel from the options.
4. Select **Wipe device** and **Lock bootloader** (this secures your phone post-flashing).
5. Click **Install build** to initiate the downgrading process.
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## **Step 3: Unlock the Bootloader and Flash the Previous Android Version**
### **Unlock the Bootloader**
1. Your device will display a **debug menu**.
2. On your computer, click **Start** to proceed with unlocking the bootloader.
3. On your phone, press the **Volume Up button** to highlight **Unlock the bootloader**.
4. Press the **Power button** to validate.
5. Your phone will restart.
### **Flash the Previous Android Version**
– After the bootloader is unlocked, the **Android Flash Tool** will automatically begin the installation of the chosen Android version.
– This operation may take **30 minutes or longer**, so keep your device connected and your computer awake.
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## **Step 4: Lock the Bootloader and Complete the Process**
Once the flashing has finished, your device will restart. You will need to **lock the bootloader again** for security purposes.
### **Lock the…**
