Android 9.0 Developer Preview available for download

Earlier this week, we mentioned that Google was expected to launch the first Android 9.0 Developer Preview build in about two weeks. Fortunately for those anxious to take the next major Android version for a spin as soon as possible, Google surprised us all and made this piece of code available yesterday. This build can be tested using the official Android Emulator or by installing it on the supported Google Pixel devices.

Since the Apple iPhone X started what can be called "the notch revolution," Google will offer support for display cutouts via a new class. According to the official Developer Preview notes, "Android P offers support for the latest edge-to-edge screens with display cutout for camera and speaker. The new DisplayCutout class lets you find out the location and shape of the non-functional areas where content shouldn't be displayed." 

In addition to the above, the first Android 9.0 Developer Preview also features support for simultaneous access to two or more cameras, built-in support for the HDR VP9 Profile 2 video codec, HEIF-encoded images, multiple improvements to the Autofill framework, client-side encryption of the system backups, various security enhancements, new accessibility features, and more.

Sadly, Android 9.0 Developer Preview has no official name or launch date yet. I personally think that anything involving "Pie" is not sweet enough, not to mention that pies do not come in many colors. Since Oreo is sweet but has a very limited color range, Android P should bring back the colors, so what about Popsicle? If you have any better ideas, please drop a comment and let us know!