The Beta version of Android 12 was only out for a couple of hours before sharp-eyed users found references to upcoming Pixel models. While we have already heard of plans for a Pixel 5a and Pixel 6, as well as a possible Pixel Foldable, these mentions in Android 12 are a very good sign that they are coming.
Android 12 was fully announced at Google I/O but the final version won’t be available until September or October. The first to feature the new OS is likely to be the Pixel 6, so references to it in the files.
The discovery by one of 9to5 Google’s contributors included codenames and even model numbers for the Japanese variants of a number of Pixel devices, including the Pixel 5a 5G, Pixel 6 and Pixel Foldable. The codenames Oriole and Raven are believed to be references to the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, while Barbet is for the Pixel 5a 5G – expected to release in the next few months.
- The 10 biggest things we learned from the Google I/O keynote
- Apple Watch can be controlled with a flick of the wrist thanks to assistive touch
- Google Phone is getting a cool new feature to make you feel like a boss
The Pixel Foldable, listed here under the codename Passport, seems to be a bit more of a mystery and while it is referenced, it could still be further off. It seems there were also references to a 5G Pixel 4 that never materialized, so the Foldable’s inclusion here doesn’t guarantee a launch. I’m staying hopeful though that we do see it in some form or another before the end of the year.
Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
As T3's Editor-in-Chief, Mat Gallagher has his finger on the pulse for the latest advances in technology. He has written about technology since 2003 and after stints in Beijing, Hong Kong and Chicago is now based in the UK. He’s a true lover of gadgets, but especially anything that involves cameras, Apple, electric cars, musical instruments or travel.
-
Google's "Willow" quantum chip won't just change future computers, it could change the world
Willow smashes benchmarks at a level hard to comprehend
By Chris Hall Published
-
Long-awaited Steam Deck 2 could actually be a Steam TV box to rival Shield TV
Valve reportedly working on a set-top-box to connect to your TV
By Rik Henderson Published
-
Forget the Google Pixel Fold, this folding phone suddenly looks more appealing
Honor’s Magic V foldable is cheaper than the Pixel Fold and packs in some great features
By Andy Sansom Published
-
Google Pixel Fold suddenly doesn't sound quite so appealing
Google's first foldable doesn't appear to be as powerful as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4
By Carrie Marshall Published
-
Android 12 is the best thing about the Google Pixel 6 and its available for all Pixel phones
The Material You design of Android 12 looks stunning and it integrates all parts of the phone perfectly
By Mat Gallagher Published
-
Google Pixel 6 unboxing video: T3 reveals what you get
The Google Pixel 6 and Google Pixel 6 Pro have a new reimagined design and it’s stunning!
By Yasmine Crossland Last updated
-
Google's Pixel 6 has a secret weapon in its Tensor hardware
This might be the fastest Android yet
By Ian Morris Published
-
Seeing the Google Pixel 6 in its new video has made up my mind
A new Google teaser video shows the Pixel 6 out in the open and I’ve come to a few decisions about the handset
By Mat Gallagher Published
-
Google Pixel 6 announced with custom processor and wild new camera design
Google has officially unveiled the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro and its powered by a new Tensor processor
By Mat Gallagher Published
-
Google Pixel 6 Pro phone case images hint at handset's camera array layout
A third-party case maker has given the biggest clue yet of what to expect from the Google Pixel 6 Pro cameras
By Mat Gallagher Last updated