We don’t yet know exactly when the next version of Android will land, but Google’s development timetable provides a few clues.
For about as long as Android has existed, a major new platform version has dropped every fall. And starting with 2014’s Lollipop release, Google has preceded that with developer preview builds designed to help devs get their apps ready for new Android releases. This year, that process kicked off a couple of months earlier than expected, with an initial Android N preview in early March.
That’s one of the many signs pointing to a slightly earlier release of “N” than in years past. So when exactly will Android N be finalized by Google and unleashed as a stable release? And when will we learn the version number and nickname of the next version of Android? Well, Google’s timetable offers a few clues.
Above is Google’s official dev preview timeline for Android N, which it has stuck to in the months since the first N preview. Right now we have Developer Preview 4, with final APIs and the ability to target N on Google Play. Next up is a “near-final” system image for “final testing.”
When will we know the Android N version number and nickname?
Seven comes right after six.
If the N release tracks with previous years — specifically M and L — it’s likely the announcement of N’s version number and “sweet treat” nickname will accompany the final developer preview build. Given the timing of previous developer previews, that should fall sometime in mid-July.
As for the version number itself, we’ve seen hints out of Google I/O that it’ll be Android 7.0. And that would be no surprise. Seven comes right after six.
The nickname might well remain shrouded in mystery until the final dev preview arrives. Certain Googlers have already hinted at Nutella, but the fact that Google sought fans help naming N makes another KitKat-style corporate tie-in less likely.
What about Android N’s eventual release date?
Google’s roadmap is less specific about when the final “stable” version of Android N will be released to developers and Nexus devices, offering only a vague “Q3” window. That all but guarantees a launch before the end of September, but we wouldn’t be surprised if, given the timing of the “near final” dev preview 5 in July, we saw something in mid-to-late August.
As in years past, any new Nexus handsets would likely arrive alongside the final release of N, whether it comes in August or September. This year, rumors are swirling around the possibility of a duo of HTC-made Nexus phones.
Android N Developer Preview
The Android N Developer Preview is just that — a developer preview. While it’s now “release candidate beta” quality we still have to issue a word of caution. Tread lightly.
- What’s new in Android N
- All Android N news
- Should you use the Android N Dev Preview?
- About the Android Beta Program
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When do you think Android N will eventually arrive? Any guesses on the nickname? Shout out in the comments and share your thoughts!
