If you are waiting to see the final release of Android P, the wait is almost over. Google has released the final developer preview for its latest version of Android.
The preview is available for a handful of devices, including the Pixel, Pixel 2, and even Essential Phone. Surprisingly, Essential released its beta for Android P just an hour after Google released it for Pixel devices.
We just released a new Android P Beta build that includes the latest Google Android P code integration along with minor bug fixes and enhancements. Learn more about our beta program here: https://t.co/LWeH1iWrKq pic.twitter.com/ZLxJpu1NpZ
— Essential (@essential) July 25, 2018
This release marks the fourth beta and fifth developer preview, but contains “final system behaviors”. Essentially, this means that Android P is around the corner and we could be just a couple of weeks away from the official release.
For reference, Android Oreo was introduced on August 21st last year. We should expect to see a similar timeframe for the unveiling for Android P.
As for what P brings to the table, we have quite a few changes in store for Android devices. This includes built-in support for handsets that are released with a display notch.
Our friends at Android Police have compiled a list of every change that is coming. But, here are a few highlights:
- Inline photos and smart replies
- Screenshot editing
- Zoom lens for text selection
- Gesture navigation
- Improved App Switcher
- Calendar events on the lockscreen
The Pixel 3 and 3 XL will likely be the first devices released with Android P onboard. But you can expect the previous Pixel generations and other handsets like the OnePlus 6 to quickly be updated.
If you want to learn how to install Android P on your device today, hit the link here. The process is pretty easy and straightforward, and it’s extremely easy to un-enroll if you want to wait.
In the meantime, let us know whether you have been using Android P and what you think. Plus, we want to hear from you about what you think the final name of P will be. My bet is on Pie or Pistachios.