Android 16’s Codename Leaks, Interesting Insights Revealed

Highlights

• Android 16’s internal codename is rumoured to be “Baklava.”
• It breaks Google’s tradition of alphabetical dessert names for updates.
• This change is tied to Google’s trunk stable project.
• The change in naming pattern suggests a shift in Google’s approach to Android development.

We are still waiting for Android 15 to complete release but it appears rumours and leaks about Android 16 have already started. The recent update gives a hint about the potential code name for Android 16. Here’s what we know so far.

According to a recent Android Authority report, Android 16’s internal codename will be “Baklava”.

If true, this will be breaking Google’s tradition of alphabetical dessert names for Android updates.

We may not have seen Google use dessert names for Android versions publicly, but the company continues to do so for its internal communication. Android 15, for example, is codenamed Vanilla Ice Cream.

Google followed this pattern in 2009 when Android 1.5 was launched with the codename Cupcake. This was followed by Donut for Android 1.6, Éclair for Android 2.0/2.1, Froyo for Android 2.2 and so on.  As per the sequence after Android 15 was codenamed Vanilla Ice Cream, the Android 16 codename should start with “W.” However, it appears Google now moving away from the alphabetical order with Android 16.

According to a tip from developer teamb58 as reported by Android Authority, some recent AOSP code changes indicate that Baklava is the internal codename for Android 16.

Image credit – Android Authority

One change revealed that the min_sdk_version field for next year’s Android release was set to Baklava, while the field for Android 15 was set to Vanilla Ice Cream.

Another code change mentioned checking if the SDK codename matches Baklava during development.

During the early stages of Android development, Google typically uses the codename for the SDK version until the final SDK is released. For example, in Android 15 Beta 3, the name changed from Vanilla Ice Cream to Android 15 once the platform reached stability.

Image credit – Android Authority

Similarly, Android 16’s early builds will show Baklava instead of the final SDK version 36.

The shift in naming is tied to Google’s trunk stable project. This has changed how the company develops Android. This project first impacted Android with the release of Android 14 QPR2. It features a new build ID naming scheme. Instead of starting with U for Upside Down Cake (Android 14’s codename), build IDs beginning with A. As a result, Android 15 QPR2 and Android 16’s build IDs will start with B, such as BP1A, following this new system.

Image credit – Android Authority

Android 15’s codename Vanilla Ice Cream does not follow the alphabetical pattern that would have suggested a name starting with A. This is probably because Google had already decided on this name before the development process changed.

Many experts were expecting Android 16’s codename to start with W. However, recent leaks of “Baklava” to be the codename reflect a broader change in Android’s development structure.

Here’s a quick look at all Android version codenames over the years –

• Android 1.0 – No codename
• Android 1.1 – Petit Four
• Android 1.5 – Cupcake
• Android 1.6 – Donut
• Android 2.0/2.1 – Éclair
• Android 2.2 – Froyo
• Android 2.3 – Gingerbread
• Android 3.0 – Honeycomb
• Android 4.0 – Ice Cream Sandwich
• Android 4.1-4.3 – Jelly Bean
• Android 4.4 – KitKat
• Android 5.0/5.1 – Lollipop
• Android 6.0 – Marshmallow
• Android 7.0/7.1 – Nougat
• Android 8.0/8.1 – Oreo
• Android 9 – Pie
• Android 10 – Quince Tart
• Android 11 – Red Velvet Cake
• Android 12/12L – Snow Cone
• Android 13 – Tiramisu
• Android 14 – Upside Down Cake
• Android 15 – Vanilla Ice Cream
• Android 16 – Baklava (as per leaks)

What to Expect from Android 16? (Rumours)

Redesigned Settings Menu

 New settings menu expected in Android 16 (Image credit – Smartprix)

Android 16 is expected to feature a new intuitive settings menu layout. It will make it easier for users to navigate and customize their devices.

Improved Notifications Management

 Better Notifications Management System expected in Android 16 (Image credit – Smartprix)

The update will include enhancements to the notifications system. This will allow users a better organization and control over notifications.

New Do Not Disturb Mode

A revamped Do Not Disturb mode with customizable toggles to enable or disable specific settings, providing more flexibility in managing interruptions.

Lock Screen Widgets

The return of lock screen widgets is expected. The feature was removed in 2014. If back, it will allow users to access information directly from the lock screen4

Enhanced Desktop Windowing Mode

An improved desktop window mode for a more seamless transition between mobile and desktop-like experiences.

FAQs

Q1. What is the internal codename for Android 16?

Answer. The internal codename for Android 16 is rumoured to be “Baklava,” breaking Google’s tradition of using alphabetical dessert names for updates.

Q2. Why has Google shifted from the alphabetical naming pattern for Android codenames?

Answer. Google’s shift in naming is tied to its trunk stable project, which has changed how the company develops Android. This project impacted the naming scheme and development process.

Q3. How will the new naming system affect future Android versions?

Answer. The new naming system, influenced by Google’s trunk stable project, changes the build ID naming scheme. For example, Android 16’s build IDs will start with B, such as BP1A, following the new system.

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