Google’s Android 15 release is just around the corner, and now excitement is building with new details emerging about next year’s Android 16 update, particularly its intriguing internal codename. Historically, Google used dessert names for its software versions, but in recent times, they’ve switched to numbering. Nonetheless, internally, they haven’t dropped the sweet tradition altogether.
According to recent reports, Android 16 is codenamed ‘Baklava’, a delightful puff pastry dessert. Although Google’s public-facing nomenclature has adopted numerical designations, behind the scenes, the team still delights in giving their projects sugary names. For instance, Android 15 is known internally as ‘Vanilla Ice Cream’, and following this sweet trend, Android 16 is set to be ‘Baklava’.
Developer teamb58 shared this delightful nugget of information, having unearthed it in the AOSP (Android Open Source Project) codebase. A notable change in the code allows for the APEX module to be compressed and rolled out next year. What’s fascinating is the mention of next year’s update in the min_sdk_version field, which is set to Baklava, mirroring the way this year’s version is labeled as VanillaIceCream.
During the development cycle, Google initially tags SDK platform versions with these codenames. Once the SDK is ready for final release, the updates transition to numerical labels. This change was observed with Android 15 when it shifted from VanillaIceCream to 15 after the third developer beta. Therefore, it’s quite compelling evidence suggesting that the Android 16 build will be known internally as Baklava. However, this designation remains behind the curtains, reserved for internal and developer communication.
In a related note, Google has already launched the new Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro models in August, a notable shift from their usual release schedule. While it’s a pleasant surprise to see these flagship devices arrive earlier, many aficionados expected Android 15 to launch simultaneously. Consequently, these new devices hit the market running last year’s Android 14.
Current speculations suggest an official release of Android 15 on October 15, though this date remains tentative. Users eagerly anticipating the update should stay tuned for the final confirmation and check the list of supported devices to ensure compatibility. We will provide timely updates as more information becomes available. So, keep an eye out for future announcements and get ready to explore the delights of Android’s upcoming updates.
