The fourth and final beta version of Android O just made its debut, and the biggest change is what appears to be a new code name. When you access Android 8.0's version number Easter egg, you'll be greeted by ... a cartoon octopus.
Octopus starts with the letter "O," and Google always makes sure to give their numeric Android versions a corresponding alphabetical code name. After last year's Nougat, "Octopus" falls in line, at least. Oh, and an octopus has eight tentacles, which aligns all-too-perfectly with the new Android version being 8.0.
So that must mean that Android 8.0 "Octopus" is all but official, right? The Verge seems to think so, but we're not buying it yet.
First of all, Android's code names have always been based on the name of a dessert or treat. From 1.5 Cupcake to 7.1 Nougat, the one thing you've always been able to count on with these nicknames is that they'd be sweet and readily edible.
So why would Google switch to animal code names all of a sudden? It just seems unlikely.
But the main argument against "8.0 Octopus" is the fact that Google loves playing tricks on their fans. We've seen it time and again with all of their April Fools' pranks, but more importantly, they've even given us the ol' okey-doke when it comes to Android code names in the past.
In fact, almost exactly one year ago at the same point in Android N's development timeline, Google trolled everyone by creating a version number Easter egg that had many believing that Android 7.0 would be called "Namey McNameface."
Moral of the story, we'll believe it when we see it listed officially somewhere. The octopus is just too convenient with its eight tentacles, plus it doesn't fit the naming convention, and bottom line, we're kinda tired of getting tricked by Google.
Nonetheless, if you want to check out the new Easter egg in Android 8.0, just sign up for the Android Beta Program with a supported device, then make sure to grab the latest OTA update. After that, head to System -> About phone, then tap "Android version" seven times. From there, tap the "O" logo a few times, then long-press it, and you'll be greeted by the interactive octopus!
What are your thoughts on the whole octopus ordeal? Is it legit, or is this just another one of Google's famous pranks? Let us know in the comment section below.
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1 Comment
Am I really the first commenter? Was kinda hoping to see that someone figured out he did more than follow your finger. Lol
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