Android N called New York Cheesecake internally, what about the final name?

In addition to a version number, every Android release is also associated with two other identifiers: a codename and the final commercial name – both typically named after desserts or treats. For Android L, the codename was Lemon Meringue Pie and the final name was, obviously, Lollipop. For Android M it was Macadamia Nut Cookie for the codename and Marshmallow for the final name. So what about Android N?

While Google doesn’t necessarily “officially” announce its internal codenames, these tend to have a way of creeping out to the public, usually thanks to appearances in the AOSP repository. And to no surprise, we’re now starting to see references to NYC, or what is believed to be the codename “New York Cheesecake”.

Of course, Google has never ever picked a codename to be the actual final name, and unless they want completely troll us (which isn’t impossible), odds are the final name will be something totally different. So what can we expect from the final name? We probably won’t know until Android N releases in final form, but Google’s Sundar Pichai previously joked about the possibility of a poll to figure out what to call it… and sure enough, such a thing as made its way into the Google Opinion Rewards app in the form of two questions that don’t necessarily mention Android N, but are obviously references to it.

The first question is “What tasty food comes to mind that starts with the letter “N””, the second one asks “What is your favorite tasty treat from the list below?” with choices being Napoleon, Nut brittle, Nachos, Nori, Noodles, Nougat, Neapolitan ice cream. Nori (seaweed), Nachos, and noodles aren’t exactly what I’d call tasty treats, at least not in the conventional sense, but likely that’s more just Google getting its troll on.

The bigger question is if they are really using this survey information to help in their decision, or if it’s just Google being Google, messing with our emotions. The later wouldn’t be too surprising. Anyhow, what do you think is the most likely candidate for the “N” final name? And what do you think about the new codename? Share your thoughts down in the comments.

Learn more about Android N by checking out our “Diving into Android N” series!