Google’s new Android Flash Tool will install AOSP onto your Pixel phone from your browser
Android and iOS are very different platforms, but one of the main differences is that Android allows for a greater degree of customizability. Unfortunately, the process can sometimes get a bit confusing and complicated, which might put some users off from doing it. It looks like Google is trying to do something about it.
Google has announced the launch of a new web-based tool called the Android Flash Tool that will allow users to flash AOSP onto their developmental devices from the web browser itself. This effectively takes out a couple of steps in the entire flashing process.
This does not only make it easier for budding developers, but it will also be a more efficient way for even seasoned developers to check for compatibility issues and also to see changes made in real-time. In theory, it would also allow developers to flash AOSP onto their phones from just about any computer, even if that computer does not have the usual developmental tools such as adb.
That being said, there are some requirements such as having a Pixel 2 device or newer or a HiKey developer board, a web browser compatible with the WebUSB standard (such as Chrome), a USB cable, and Android USB drivers. This is also more catered towards developers so if you’re an end-user, technically you could still flash AOSP, but don’t expect too much from it.
Source: Google