Google has released the latest Android O preview, ahead of the official public launch this summer
The fourth developer preview is also the final version, with Google saying it is adding the finishing touches before consumers get their hands on the yet-to-be-named OS.
Google is also saying this latest preview is a release candidate, meaning any changes between now and the final release are likely to be minimal.
In a post on the Android developers’ blog, the company wrote: “As we put the finishing touches on the Android O platform, today we’re rolling out Developer Preview 4 to help you make sure your apps are ready.
“This is the final preview before we launch the official Android O platform to consumers later this summer. Take this opportunity to wrap up your testing and publish your updates soon, to give users a smooth transition to Android O.”
The preview is available for Android Beta Program members with a Pixel, Pixel XL, Nexus 6P, Nexus 5X, Nexus Player or Pixel C device.
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The developer beta is also open to the public for those with compatible devices. It’s easy to enroll your device and then download the preview it from the Android developer’s site. We have a guide for the downloading the Android O Beta here.
Given this is the final version, there’s also much less risk associated with grabbing the beta and testing it on your primary device, but make sure you back up your device regardless.
The final preview comes as we gear up for the release of a flood of smartphones that’ll see us the end of the year.
Moto has an event tomorrow, while Samsung is launching the Galaxy Note 8 on August 23.
LG has the V30 on deck for August 31. Last year’s V20 was the first to feature Android Nougat out of the box, so it’ll be interesting to see whether LG is able to repeat the feat.
Of course, there’s the little matter of Google’s Pixel and Pixel XL sequels, which will certainly arrive packing Android O.
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Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.