Android's operating system has a long and delicious history, marked by its unique version names, each inspired by a sweet treat. This comprehensive guide provides a complete list of Android version names, their corresponding numbers, and some fun facts along the way. Whether you're a seasoned Android user or just starting out, understanding the version history is a fun way to appreciate the evolution of this popular mobile OS.
The Complete Android Version Names List: From A to Z (Almost!)
Below is a chronological list of Android versions, their names, and release years. We'll also delve deeper into some of the more interesting releases later.
| Version Number | Android Version Name | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | Alpha | 2008 |
| 1.1 | Beta | 2009 |
| 1.5 | Cupcake | 2009 |
| 1.6 | Donut | 2009 |
| 2.0 | Éclair | 2009 |
| 2.2 | Froyo | 2010 |
| 2.3 | Gingerbread | 2010 |
| 3.0 | Honeycomb | 2011 |
| 3.1 | Honeycomb | 2011 |
| 3.2 | Honeycomb | 2011 |
| 4.0 | Ice Cream Sandwich | 2011 |
| 4.1 | Jelly Bean | 2012 |
| 4.2 | Jelly Bean | 2012 |
| 4.3 | Jelly Bean | 2013 |
| 4.4 | KitKat | 2013 |
| 5.0 | Lollipop | 2014 |
| 5.1 | Lollipop | 2015 |
| 6.0 | Marshmallow | 2015 |
| 7.0 | Nougat | 2016 |
| 7.1 | Nougat | 2016 |
| 8.0 | Oreo | 2017 |
| 8.1 | Oreo | 2017 |
| 9.0 | Pie | 2018 |
| 10 | Android 10 | 2019 |
| 11 | Android 11 | 2020 |
| 12 | Android 12 | 2021 |
| 13 | Android 13 | 2022 |
What are some of the most popular Android versions?
The popularity of Android versions ebbs and flows as newer releases come out and older devices reach end-of-life. However, some versions stand out for their significant contributions and widespread adoption. Android 4.4 (KitKat) enjoyed a long reign due to its compatibility with a wide range of devices. Similarly, Android 7 (Nougat) and Android 8 (Oreo) were also quite prevalent for their improvements and features. More recently, Android 11 and 12 have seen significant adoption, though the landscape constantly shifts with each new release.
What is the latest Android version?
As of October 26, 2023, the latest Android version is Android 13.
Why did Google stop using dessert names for Android versions?
Google officially stopped using dessert names for Android versions with the release of Android 10 in 2019. While the reasons were never explicitly stated, it's likely a combination of factors: Maintaining consistency across global markets with different cultural interpretations of desserts and a move toward a more streamlined and less whimsical brand identity are likely contributors. The move towards numerical naming simplifies updates and version management for both users and developers.
What are the key features of each major Android version?
Delving into the key features of each major Android version would be an extensive undertaking. Each release brought a range of improvements, from UI enhancements and performance boosts to entirely new features. To get a detailed breakdown of specific versions and their features, searching for "[Android Version Name] features" (e.g., "Android Oreo features") will yield comprehensive results.
This list provides a strong foundation for understanding the evolution of Android. Remember to check for updated information as new versions are released!
