Google Pixel 9 smartphones will not launch with Android 15 despite seven-year update commitment

The Pixel 9 series is almost here, having been scheduled for an August 13 release. Based on recent rumours, the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL will mirror the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro (curr. $749 on Amazon) by starting with 128 GB of storage. Additionally, the trio may ape their predecessors in a more surprising area.

According to Android Headlines, Google will release Pixel 9 smartphones running the same version of Android 14 as their predecessors. For reference, this also includes the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. However, since the Pixel Fold arrived last May, there will be a major Android version change between it and its successor.

Allegedly, the stable release of Android 15 will simply not be ready in time to coincide with the introduction of the Pixel 9 series. Nonetheless, Android Headlines asserts that Google will still commit to delivering seven years of OS updates. As a result, the Pixel 9 series could finish up on Android 21 just like the Pixel 8 series, including the Pixel 8a.