The unveiling of the Google Pixel 9 series on August 13 raises an intriguing issue, as Google typically launches Pixel devices in October each year alongside the release of a new stable version of Android in close succession.
The accelerated debut of the Pixel 9 by two months contrasts with the unchanged Android 15 roadmap (currently at Beta 4), prompting speculation about which Android version the Pixel 9 will utilize. Historically, the Pixel series has been the first to adopt the latest stable Android version.
Android Police anticipates that the Pixel 9 will debut with Android 14 and subsequently update to Android 15 shortly after. Coupled with Google’s commitment to providing updates for Pixel devices for up to 7 years, it suggests that the Pixel 9 could potentially be upgraded through 8 Android versions (despite the 7-year update period ending in 2031).
While OS upgrades may hold less significance in recent times due to Google segregating feature updates from core OS upgrades and delivering some updates via Google Play Services/Store, a guaranteed extended OS update cycle is undoubtedly advantageous for consumers. It also exerts pressure on other Android smartphone manufacturers to follow suit.
Source: Android Police
TLDR: The Google Pixel 9 series surprises with an early launch, sparking speculation on its Android version compatibility and the implications of Google’s extended update policy on the Android smartphone market.
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