Qualcomm has announced today that it will be making it easier for device OEMs with Android devices powered by the Snapdragon 636, Snapdragon 660, and Snapdragon 845 to bring Android P to these phones. This comes as the result of a partnership between both Google and Qualcomm to make sure that OEMs can bring the latest software updates to consumers. In essence, this means that Qualcomm will provide an Android P-based Board Support Package (BSP) to OEMs designed so that updates are much easier to offer. This explains why so many non-Pixel devices are also receiving an Android P beta.

"We are excited to work with Google to pre-integrate our software with Android P, making it production ready for OEMs," said Mike Genewich, director, product management, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. "Through our strengthened relationship, Google and Qualcomm Technologies are set to expand the market for Android and make it easier for OEMs to launch devices based on Snapdragon mobile platforms."

What this means for other device OEMs isn't clear. If this is the result of an exclusivity deal it could leave other chip manufacturers like HiSilicon and MediaTek behind in terms of advancements, leading device manufacturers to potentially favour Qualcomm chips over others. What is noteworthy is that companies like Xiaomi with the Mi Mix 2S and OnePlus with the OnePlus 6 are interested in getting the latest version of Android out faster than the competition, with both companies being part of the initial Android P beta on non-Pixel devices. Other OEMs involved include Vivo, Sony Mobile, Essential, and OPPO. Thanks to Project Treble, newer devices with the Snapdragon 636, Snapdragon 660, and Snapdragon 845 should receive the Android P update faster than before. That's the goal, anyway.

If you're interested in seeing what's coming in Android P, you can check out the new gestures, new APIs, and even a new feature to prevent smartphone addiction. There are lots more to come!


Source: Qualcomm