**Is Android 15 Even Relevant?**
When Google revealed the Pixel 9 series nearly two weeks ago, many anticipated that the new devices would come equipped with Android 15 pre-installed. Historically, Google’s latest Android version has been launched before new Pixel devices hit the market. This year, however, Google chose a different route. The Pixel 9 debuted two months sooner than prior Pixel releases, seemingly aimed at introducing its AI-enhanced phones before the iPhone 16.
In a previous article, I mentioned how 2024 offers a distinct opportunity for Google to rival the iPhone. The emergence of AI has somewhat equalized the competition, as numerous Apple iPhones will not accommodate the complete range of Apple Intelligence features. Additionally, Apple intends to introduce its AI functionalities gradually, while the Pixel 9 comes pre-equipped with a broad spectrum of AI attributes right out of the box.
Nevertheless, during the Pixel 9 event, Google made no mention of any other Android 15 features. The emphasis remained strictly on the Gemini AI capabilities present in Android 14, along with new functionalities that won’t be available for several more months. It almost felt as if Android 15 was an afterthought, which is not the first instance of Google downplaying its importance this year.
### The Change in Emphasis: From Android Revisions to AI
Traditionally, a major incentive to purchase Nexus and Pixel devices was the assured early access to Google’s latest Android revisions. While this still holds some value, it is apparent that Google’s main focus has shifted toward Gemini AI.
The Pixel 9 event marked the second major presentation of the year where Android 15 was sidelined. The initial instance was at Google I/O 2024 in May, where the central theme was AI. Android 15 was only mentioned in passing, with a spotlight on the AI features that would be woven into the operating system. It wasn’t until the next day that Google unveiled new Android 15 features.
Then came the Pixel 9 event, where Google displayed all the new AI functionalities exclusive to the Pixel 9, which are currently accessible through Android 14 rather than Android 15. The underlying message appears to be that we may soon find ourselves in a situation where the actual operating system is less significant as long as it can support AI. Traditional features might become less critical as AI takes the forefront in all aspects.
### The Outlook for Android: Emphasizing AI
This transformation could effectively address the issue of Android fragmentation in the years to come. If AI turns into the paramount feature of a smartphone, and all Android devices can run Gemini AI or a variant (like Galaxy AI incorporating some Gemini aspects), the particular Android version in use may lose its relevance. Variations in user interfaces across Android 14, 15, 16, 17, and beyond might become trivial.
In this scenario, only routine security updates would be required to maintain the device’s safety. Users may not even be concerned about their Android version, particularly if their engagement with the device relies more on voice commands to the AI rather than screen time. If Gemini can execute tasks via voice prompts, the importance of app design updates might diminish.
This doesn’t imply that Google will halt the addition of non-AI functionalities to Android or cease enhancing software aesthetics. However, it might not emphasize every new Android release if AI remains the primary concentration.
### The Significance for Pixel 9 and Future Devices
It’s also noteworthy that Pixel 9 phones offer seven years of Android updates. However, given they launch with Android 14 instead of 15, how will those updates be counted? The Pixel 8, which also debuted with Android 14, is entitled to seven years of updates too.
Luckily, Google’s support page clarifies this matter. Pixel 9 devices will receive Android updates through August 2031, which may imply Android 22 rather than Android 21. The Pixel 8 devices will continue receiving updates until October 2030.
### A Contrast with iOS
The situation varies with Apple’s iOS 18 launch. The software upgrade incorporates numerous non-AI features that iPhone users will enjoy immediately. In fact, hundreds of millions of iPhones will receive the non-AI iteration of iOS 18 since they cannot support Apple Intelligence.
In the future, all new iPhones will likely be compatible with Apple Intelligence, and AI will soon become integral to the iPhone experience. It will be fascinating to observe how Apple manages iOS design and non-AI features once that transition occurs.
### Conclusion: What Lies Ahead for Android?
What’s occurring with Android 15 may be a singular situation that Google won’t replicate next year. It’s possible that Android 15 wasn’t prepared for the early Pixel 9 launch, rendering this an exception rather than the new standard. Perhaps the Pixel 10 will debut with Android 16 pre-installed, and Google will place greater emphasis on Android in the future.
