Android 9.0 Pie is official, rolling out to these smartphones starting today

Months after revealing this year’s Android version at Google I/O 2018 conference, the cat is finally out of the bag. The search giant has finally revealed the official name and the version number of Android P. Amidst all kinds of rumours revolving around the terms ‘Pancake’, ‘Peanut Butter’ and even the Indian dessert ‘Peda’, Google has chosen ‘Pie’ as the official name of 2018’s Android operating system.
“The latest release of Android is here! And it comes with a heaping helping of artificial intelligence baked in to make your phone smarter, simpler and more tailored to you. Today we’re officially introducing Android 9 Pie,” announced Sameer Samat, VP of product management, Android and Google Play on the company blog post.

The OS iteration is a major bump over the Android 8.0 Oreo as it brings the version number to 9.0 instead of 8.2 or 8.3. The firm has already revealed the features that will come as a part of the OS version.
Google has also revealed the OEMs that will be the first in line to bring Android P to their smartphones. The list includes Sony, Xiaomi, HMD Global, Oppo, Vivo, OnePlus and Essential. Those smartphones that fall under the Android One umbrella will also be receiving Android 9.0 Pie update.

This year Google took an interesting step and expanded its Android 9.0 Pie beta program to non-Pixel smartphones as well. The first batch of smartphones to become a part of the programme included Sony Xperia XZ2, Essential Phone, Nokia 7 Plus, Xiaomi Mi Mix 2S, Oppo R15 Pro, Vivo X21 and the OnePlus 6. These will also be the first ones to get the OS version.

Google will start rolling out Android 9.0 Pie to Pixel devices starting today.

Some of the key features Android 9.0 Pie will bring onboard are New system navigation, Smart Text Selection, Redesigned Quick Settings, Simplified Volume Controls, New Dashboard, App Timer, New Do Not Disturb mode and Wind Down feature.