The next major version of Google's mobile operating system, which has for long been known simply as Android N, now has its official name.
Continuing the tradition of naming Android versions after sweet treats and desserts, Android 7.0 has been given the name Android Nougat.
The announcement was made by Google through a variety of platforms, including through Android's official Twitter account. The statue design for the new operating system has also been revealed, with the green Android robot mascot standing on top of three nougat bars of different flavors.
Introducing #AndroidNougat. Thank you, world, for all your sweet name ideas! #AndroidNReveal pic.twitter.com/7lIfDBwyBE
— Android (@Android) June 30, 2016
In June, Google said that Android fans should expect the revelation of Android N's official name in a few weeks. For the first time, Google allowed users to send in their suggestions for the operating system's name, and when it had closed the window for submissions it started to go through them.
The unveiling of Android 7.0 Nougat comes right on time, and it follows the trend that Google has set for Android. The versions of Android succeed each other alphabetically, with the names starting with those letters. In 2013, Google launched Android 4.0 KitKat; in 2014, it was Android 5.0 Lollipop; and in 2015, it was Android 6.0 Marshmallow.
Nougat was one of the most popular suggestions for the mobile operating system's name, with other fan favorites being Nerds and Nutella. It was unclear if Google considered going with a brand name as it did with Android 4.0 KitKat, which required the company to sign a licensing deal.
Another popular suggestion was New York Cheesecake. However, the name was not expected to be chosen by Google as New York Cheesecake was already being used as the mobile operating system's internal codename. Android KitKat was internally known as Key Lime Pie; Android Lollipop was codenamed Lemon Meringue Pie; and Android Marshmallow was referred to as Macadamia Nut Cookie. None of the internal codenames were carried over to name the final product.
What can users expect from Android 7.0 Nougat upon its release in the fall? The mobile operating system will feature a VR mode that will provide additional power for smartphones when used in conjunction with a virtual reality headset, along with the new Doze on the Go battery-saving feature that will save the power of smartphones while users are walking with them in their pocket.
Android 7.0 Nougat is also expected to introduce a revamped notification panel, side-by-side app support, and improved speed when switching between apps.
