Android N release date: What will Google name its upcoming platform?

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Google has been consistent with naming its new Android platform versions after sweet treats, starting with Cupcake. Now that the sixth version is already out and named Marshmallow, fans are wondering what Google will name its seventh mobile OS version, Android N.

The guessing game has already started. According to TechRadar, naming Android N after popular sweet treats will give Google many options to choose from. One plausible name that the industry follower came up with is Nutella. Reportedly, since Google got permission from Nestle to use its "KitKat" tag for a previous version of Android, the tech giant may again ask the food company for the "Nutella" brand.

Another name that the industry follower came up with is Android Nougat. Since "nougat" is a general term, Google will have no problem using it to brand the upcoming platform version. The "nougat" name would also be consistent with other Android names derived from stock sweets, as some of the previous Android versions included Donut, Éclair, Gingerbread, Ice Cream Sandwich, and Lollipop.

Meanwhile, as Android 6.0 Marshmallow starts rolling out to Android devices, some fans are already thinking of Android 7.0, particularly when to expect it and how different it will be from the current version. According to recent speculations, multi-tasking will be a key improvement in the upcoming Android 7.0 environment. TechWorm said that a more polished multi-window mode for Android N devices will be featured, as well as OpenJDK support. In addition, there will reportedly be additional features for an improved tablet support.

As to when fans may expect Android N, the industry follower mentioned that a preview build may be showcased at this year's Google I/O event, scheduled to happen in May. After its unveiling, Google will have to build a beta version for the new platform first before rolling it out, expectedly first in the company's Nexus lineups.