Android 9.0 P release date rumors: Google I/O 2018 tease hints at Android Pineapple

The next version of Google's Android mobile operating system is not expected to be named until the back half of the year, but the company may have just revealed what it might be called.

The tech giant has recently announced that this year's I/O Developer Conference will run from May 8 through May 10. According to reports, Google's announcement came via a cryptic tweet, sending tech-savvy folks to crack the code to Google StreetView where plenty of clues are hidden. It did not only include the date of Google I/O 2018, though; there was also a hint of Android 9.0's name.

As users know, Google names its mobile OS alphabetically and after a dessert. In recent years, it had Android Lollipop, Marshmallow, Nougat, and Oreo. This year, the name should start with "P" and it just so happens that a sweet treat with that starting letter was tucked away on the interactive website: a pineapple cake. Some think the ill-fitting image of the dessert is there as an indication of the next major Android update.

While this could be true, Google has a reputation on trolling its fans when it comes to naming its future Android Versions. So, fans should take this with a grain of salt.

Plus, Pineapple is not the first name to be thrown at Android P. Earlier last year, Google Senior Vice President for Android Hiroshi Lockheimer suggested on Twitter that 2018's Android version would be named after the Japanese snack food, Pocky. Recently, there was a hint within the Android Open Source Project referring to the next major update as Android Pi. Other suggestions include Pancake, Peanut Butter, and Popsicle.

Whichever it is, Google is expected to discuss Android 9.0 during Google I/O 2018. The event will be held at the Shoreline Amphitheatre right in the company's backyard. Apart from Android P, the tech giant is also expected to delve more into its Google Assistant and Google Home.