Know android version you have

Here’s how to find what Android version and build number you have

We have a great set of update guides here at Android Authority that are sure to keep you on the newest Android build. However, they’re only beneficial if you know what version you’re currently running. Luckily for you, this information isn’t all that hard to track down. Here’s how to find out what Android version and build number your device is running.

Luckily for you, the process of tracking down your Android version doesn’t really change based on your phone. Almost all OEMs tuck the information away in the same place, so let’s get searching.

What is the most recent Android version?

Before we get into finding your Android version, you may as well know how you stack up. Right now, the most recent release is Android 11, which dropped in September 2020. The first phones to make the switch were — unsurprisingly — Google’s own Pixel devices. The rollout has greatly expanded in the months since, and you can check your place in the timeline below.

Android 12 is the next update in the pipeline, though we’ve only seen developer previews thus far. If you really want to stay ahead of the curve, you can download it yourself and check out the newest changes.

How do you find your version of Android?

Now that you know where the latest devices sit, let’s find out where your Android device is. The process is straightforward, and it involves hopping into your settings app. Once you open it, follow these steps:

1. Scroll to the bottom of your settings app and locate About phone.
2. Enter the About phone section.
3. Look for an additional submenu for software information, or you may see a section labeled Android version. Enter this section of your menu.

You should now be able to check your Android version as well as the build number. Your phone may store its security update information and Android skin version information in the same location. While you’re in the settings menu, it might be a great time to see if you have a fresh software update waiting for you.

There you go, everything you need to know about tracking down your Android version. We’ll be sure to update this page with new information if there’s an even easier way to find your version, or Android 12 officially rolls out.

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How To Check And Update Android Version | Know your Android Version

Android version in your smartphone comes with frequent updates. The latest Android version is always better than its precursor. It comes with better features and also with bugs fixed. Moreover, if you are lucky the additional features are also added. The best thing about updating the Android version never lets you get bored of the same look. The updated version also comes with a brand new look. Knowing the features will always want you to update the Android version. Moreover, if you are facing a problem with the software, knowing and updating the software version does help in solving it.

However, the updates for each Android device do not come all at once. It depends on the location. Eventually, your update will arrive even though it’s late. Once the update has arrived you will get a notification on your Android device. In a parallel case, it can also happen that you have knowingly or unknowingly set the automatic installation of the update as soon as it arrives. You will not receive notification in such a situation.

To know if you have the latest Android version you will have to check it. And if there is an available update you can also update the Android version and install it very easily. All you have to do is follow these simple steps(Samsung M51 Used for demonstration) to first check the Android Version and then look for updates followed by installing it.

Steps to Follow to Check the Android Version

The first step is to open your Android phone setting. To do this, just swipe down your Android notification panel and click on the gear icon.

Next, scroll down to the bottom until you find About Phone . Now tap on it to open about setting.

Now you will see all the information about your Android deviceincluding the Android software version.

Steps to Follow to Update the Android Software Version

Swipe down on the home screen to open the notification panel. Tap on the Settings icon present usually on the right corner. You can open the setting from the app menu as well.

Scroll down to Software update and tap to open it. Now click on the Download and install.

The next screen will be open and you will see Checking for updates written on it.

If there is an update to be installed you will find an option to click on Update Now. And if your software is up to date “You software is up to date” will be displayed.

Software update information is also provided below it where you can check the patch level.

However, the steps to check the Android software updates are different for different devices. It also depends on the installed Software version on your Android device.

Note: An Internet connection is required to update the Android version of your smartphone.

About The Author

Seema Hansda

Seema is a tech geek who loves to spend her time with gadgets to acquire knowledge about new technologies. Besides writing blogs, she also likes reading novels, playing guitar, cooking, gardening, and photography.

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How to check the Android version and ROM type on your device

Android version and ROM type

Knowing the Android version and ROM type of your device is important for several reasons, like for example when you want to see if there’s an updated version of the software available. But why it’s important to know the Android version and ROM type of the unlocking process?

Well, the ROM type might have an important word to say in the unlocking process. In some situations, the network unlock code might not work if your phone is rooted or using a custom ROM. Once returned to the stock original ROM , the code will successfully unlock your phone.

The Android version, on the other hand, has an important word to say when it comes to using hidden menu codes, like codes for prompting the unlock message, codes for checking the lock level of your phone, codes for access into the debugging screen etc. For some Android versions, especially for the newest ones, the hidden menu codes do not work. That’s why in case the unlock code doesn’t work, some troubleshooting methods that involve the use of hidden menu codes will not be available for use.

In order to check the Android version and ROM type on your phone please go to MENU -> System Settings -> More -> About Device. Check the exact data you have under:

• Android version: for example 4.4.2
• Model number: for example SM-G900F
• Build number: if your phone has the stock original ROM then the model number is included in the build number. For example KOT59H.G900FXXU2ANG1

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Android Versions Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Plus, what is the current version of Android?

The Android operating system, introduced in February 2009, runs on all Android smartphones and tablets. Since it’s open-source, some devices have a custom version of the operating system (OS), but most have a similar look and feel and share the same functionality. Each version of the OS has a corresponding number, and each had its own dessert codename up until Android 10, such as Cupcake, KitKat, Lollipop, etc.

Don’t know which version of Android you have? Go to Settings > About phone > Android version. If you have an old version, learn how to update it.

Below is a history of the operating system from the beginning to the current Android version, including Android OS names, when each was released, and what they added to the platform.

Android 12

Current version: 12.0 (developer preview); released on February 18, 2021.

Google released the developer version of Android 12 in early 2021 to give app developers a head start on preparing for the final release later in the year. The latest update includes many new features to help developers, including compatible media transcoding, rich content insertion, support for the AVIF image format, and easier debugging.

Several subtle changes have been made to the user interface. Most notably, the menu screens have a light-blue tint, which is easier on the eyes than the old white background. Users have more font options for texting, and there’s a built-in tool for editing screenshots.

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Android developer previews are only supported on Google Pixel devices but can be sideloaded onto other devices. Although a stable build is expected in May 2021, the rollout will likely be gradual and limited to specific devices at first.

Key New Features

• Improved gesture navigation for immersive mode.
• Better optimization for foldable devices and TVs.
• Audio-coupled haptic effect.
• Faster, more responsive notifications.
• Untrusted touch event blocking for enhanced security.
• New MAC address restrictions for enhanced privacy.

Android 11

Current version: 11.0; released on September 11, 2020.

Android 11 got a wider release than past versions, with OnePlus, Xiaomi, Oppo, and Realme joining the Google Pixel in getting first dibs. If you have a Pixel 2 or later, you likely got this OS update.

Some features are exclusive to the Pixel line of smartphones, including an AR-location sharing feature and more chat apps that can access Google’s Smart Reply functionality.

Features available to all users (with an upgradeable phone) include improved chat notifications and tighter location permissions.

Android 11 groups notifications from messaging apps into a Conversations section at the top of the notification shade. It recognizes different message threads, and you can set one as a Priority Conversation to get enhanced notifications. Similarly, you can mute notifications for specific threads if they’re blowing up your phone.

Another messaging feature is Bubbles. If you’ve used Facebook Messenger’s Chat Heads, this is much the same. You can take a conversation and let it float above other apps; when you minimize it, the bubble moves to the screen’s side. Best of all, you can have more than one bubble going at once if you’re chatting in different apps.

Long pressing the power button brings up more options in Android 11, including Google Pay and smart home controls.

Finally, Android 11 enhances privacy features. When an app asks for location, microphone, or camera access, you can choose to allow it while using the app or allow it for one-time only.

Finally, if you haven’t used an app in a long time, Android 11 automatically resets the app’s permissions.

Key New Features

• Improved messaging notifications.
• «Chat heads» style feature for messaging apps.
• Easier access to Google Pay.
• Quick access to smart home controls.
• Tighter location permissions.
• Permissions expire for unused apps.

Android 10

Current version: 10.0; released on September 3, 2019.

Android 10 (formerly known as Android Q) adds support for foldable phones. It also supports 5G wireless. Google worked with the Deaf community to create Live Caption, which automatically captions audio playing on a smartphone. Once Live Caption detects speech, it adds captions, and it can do so offline. A new Focus mode lets you silence distracting apps when you need a break.

Smart Reply can detect your next move, so if you tap an address, the phone opens Google Maps. Android 10 adds privacy and location sections to your settings. You can also choose to share location data only when you’re using an app. Plus, Android sends alerts to remind you when you’re sharing your location. Another new setting is Digital Wellbeing and parental controls, which integrates Google Family Link with the smartphone usage dashboard introduced with Android Pie. Finally, security updates happen in the background, so you won’t need to reboot.

Key New Features

• Support for foldable phones.
• 5G support.
• Live Caption.
• Focus mode.
• More transparent privacy and location settings.
• Parental controls on all Android phones going forward.

Android 9.0 Pie

Current version: 9.0; released on August 6, 2018.

Initial version: Released on August 6, 2018.

Android 9.0 Pie aims to help you use your smartphone less. It adds a dashboard that monitors your usage and several ways to mute notifications when you’re busy or trying to sleep. The OS also learns from your behavior. For example, it offers to disable notifications you frequently dismiss and gives battery priority to the apps you use most often.

Key New Features

• Digital Wellbeing dashboard.
• Smart replies in messaging.
• Mute notifications (other than emergencies) by placing the phone face down.
• Automatically enable Do Not Disturb at bedtime.
• Interface turns gray at bedtime to discourage usage.
• Removed multitask/overview button.
• Screenshot button added to power options.
• Screenshot annotation.

Android 8.0 Oreo

Final version: 8.1; released on December 5, 2017.

Initial version: Released on August 21, 2017.

Android 8.0 Oreo’s release coincided with Go Edition, the company’s lighter OS for low-end devices. Android Go brought stock Android to cheaper devices that didn’t have the space for the full-blown OS. It also added a few usability enhancements and fixed a controversial emoji.

Key New Features

• Android Oreo Go Edition introduced.
• Bluetooth battery level for connected devices in Quick Settings.
• Navigation buttons dim when not in use.
• Automatic light and dark themes.
• The cheese in the hamburger emoji moved from the bottom to the top of the burger.

Android 7.0 Nougat

Google no longer supports Android 7.0 Nougat.

Final version: 7.1.2; released on April 4, 2017.

Initial version: Released on August 22, 2016.

Modified versions of the Android OS are often ahead of the curve. Android 7.0 Nougat adds support for split-screen functionality, a feature that companies like Samsung already offered. It also adds more inclusive emojis with more skin and hair options.

Key New Features

• Built-in split-screen support.
• Emojis with additional skin colors and hairstyles.
• Ability to add emergency information to the lock screen.
• Introduction of Daydream virtual reality platform.
• Picture-in-picture support for Android TV.
• Fingerprint sensor gesture to open/close notification shade.
• GIF support for the default keyboard.
• Battery usage alerts.

Android 6.0 Marshmallow

Final version: 6.0.1; released on December 7, 2015.

Initial version: Released on October 5, 2015.

Google no longer supports Android 6.0 Marshmallow.

Android 6.0 Marshmallow introduces Do Not Disturb, previously known as Priority Mode. It enables users to mute all notifications during a specified time or only allow alarms or priority alerts. Do Not Disturb is a boon for people tired of being awoken by buzzes on their nightstand or during a work meeting. The other significant advance is in-app permissions. Users can choose which permissions to allow and which to block, rather than enabling all of them. Android Marshmallow is the first Android OS to support mobile payments via Android Pay, now known as Google Pay.

Key New Features

• Do Not Disturb mode.
• Android Pay for mobile payments.
• Google Now on Tap, a precursor to Google Assistant.
• Doze Mode keeps apps from draining the battery when the phone isn’t in use.
• Built-in fingerprint reader support.
• App permissions granted individually.
• Automatic backup and restore for apps.
• App search bar and favorites.
• USB-C support.

Android 5.0 Lollipop

Final version: 5.1.1; released on April 21, 2015.

Initial version: Released on November 12, 2014.

Google no longer supports Android 5.0 Lollipop.

Android 5.0 Lollipop introduces Google’s Material Design language, which controls the interface’s look and extends throughout Google’s mobile apps. It adds a new way to transfer data between phones. Lollipop also introduces a security feature where a device remains locked until the owner signs into their Google account, even if the thief manages to reset the device to factory settings. Finally, Smart Lock keeps your phone from locking when in a trusted place such as your home or work, or when it’s connected to a trusted device, like a smartwatch or Bluetooth speaker.

Key New Features

• Notification access on the lock screen.
• App and notification settings accessible from the lock screen.
• Smart Lock keeps your phone from locking in specific scenarios.
• Search within the settings app.
• Recently used apps remembered after a restart.
• Tap and Go for transferring data from one device to another.
• Multiple SIM card support.
• Built-in support for Wi-Fi calling.
• Flashlight application.

Dropped Support for:

Android 4.4 KitKat

Final version: 4.4.4; released on June 19, 2014.

Initial version: Released on October 31, 2013.

Google no longer supports Android 4.4 KitKat.

Android 4.4’s code name was Key Lime Pie. However, the Android team thought that key lime pie was an unfamiliar taste for the masses and went with KitKat, named after a Nestle candy bar, instead. The deal between Android and Nestle was so hush-hush that many Googlers didn’t know about it until the unveiling of the KitKat statue at the company’s Silicon Valley campus.

The update includes expanded device support compared to previous versions of the OS and the release of Wear (formerly Android Wear) by Google. The Wear updates (4.4W) are exclusive to smartwatches and released on June 25, 2014.

Key New Features

• Wear for smartwatches (4.4W).
• GPS and Bluetooth music support for smartwatches (4.4W.2).
• Users could set defaults for text messaging and launcher apps.
• Wireless printing.

Android 4.1 Jelly Bean

Final version: 4.3.1; released on October 3, 2013.

Initial version: Released on July 9, 2012.

Google no longer supports Android 4.1 Jelly Bean.

Android Jelly Bean continues the trend of enhancing notification options, including custom app notifications. It also adds Actionable Notifications for more applications, which allowed users to respond to notifications without launching the corresponding app. The update also includes several accessibility improvements such as triple-tapping to magnify the screen, two-finger gestures, Text-to-speech output, and Gesture Mode navigation for blind users.

Key New Features

• Expandable notifications.
• Ability to turn off notifications app-by-app.
• Third-party launchers can add widgets without root access.
• Swipe from the lock screen to launch the camera.
• Multiple user accounts for tablets.
• Group messaging.
• Built-in emoji support.
• New clock app with world clock, stopwatch, and timer.

Dropped Support for:

Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich

Final version: 4.0.4; released on March 29, 2012.

Initial version: Released on October 18, 2011.

Google no longer supports Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich.

Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich adds a few functionalities that are now ubiquitous, like screenshot capture, a Face Unlock feature, and a built-in photo editor. It also introduces Android Beam, which enabled users to tap the back of their phones together to share photos, videos, contact information, and other data using NFC.

The Google Play store is announced on March 6, 2012, merging the Android Market, Google Music, and Google eBookstore. This update rolls out to devices running Android 2.2 or later.

Key New Features

• Pinch and zoom functionality in the calendar.
• Screenshot capture.
• Apps were accessible from the lock screen.
• Face Unlock.
• Users can set data limits in settings to avoid overages.
• Built-in photo editor.
• Android Beam.

Android 3.0 Honeycomb

Final version: 3.2.6; released in February 2012.

Initial version: Released on February 22, 2011.

Google no longer supports Android 3.0 Honeycomb.

Android Honeycomb is a tablet-only OS that adds features to make the Android interface compatible with larger screens. Some elements remain available, like Recent Applications.

Key New Features

• First tablet-only OS update.
• System Bar: Quick access to notifications and other information at the bottom of the screen.
• Action Bar: navigation, widgets, and other content at the top of the screen.
• Recent Applications button in System Bar aided with multitasking.
• Redesigned keyboard for larger screen sizes.
• Browser tabs and Incognito mode.
• Resizable home screen widgets.

Android 2.3 Gingerbread

Final version: 2.3.7; released on September 21, 2011.

Initial version: Released on December 6, 2010.

Google no longer supports Android 2.3 Gingerbread.

Android 2.3 Gingerbread brings a handful of enhancements, including NFC and multiple camera support. It’s also the first OS update to feature an Easter Egg, a Droid standing next to a zombie gingerbread man, with many zombies in the background.

This update also brings us Google Talk, often referred to as Google Chat, Gchat, and a few other names. It was replaced by Google Hangouts, but people still tend to call it Gchat.

Key New Features

• Faster and more accurate virtual keyboard.
• NFC support.
• Multi-camera support, including front-facing (selfie) camera.
• Google Talk voice and video chat support.
• A more efficient battery.

Android 2.2 Froyo

Final version: 2.2.3; released on November 21, 2011.

Initial version: Released on May 20, 2010.

Google no longer supports Android 2.2 Froyo.

Android Froyo adds a function that many of us now take for granted—push notifications—in which apps can send alerts even when they’re not open.

Key New Features

• Push notifications.
• USB tethering and Wi-Fi hotspot functionality.
• Adobe Flash support.
• Ability to disable data services.

Android 2.0 Éclair

Final version: 2.1; released on January 12, 2012.

Initial version: Released on October 26, 2009.

Google no longer supports Android 2.0 Éclair.

Android 2.0 Éclair adds support for more screen sizes and resolutions and some basic functionality, such as tapping a contact to call or text them.

Key New Features

• Tap a contact to make a call or send a text.
• An array of camera features, including flash support and scene mode.
• Live wallpaper.
• Searchable SMS and MMS history.
• Microsoft Exchange email support.
• Bluetooth 2.1 support.

Android 1.6 Donut

Initial & final version: Released on September 15, 2009.

Google no longer supports Android 1.6 Donut.

Android Donut adds some usability-related enhancements to the OS, including better search and photo gallery improvements.

Key New Features

• Improved search functions throughout the OS.
• Photo gallery and camera more tightly integrated.
• Text-to-speech functionality.

Android 1.5 Cupcake

Initial & final version: Released on April 27, 2009.

Google no longer supports Android 1.5 Cupcake.

Android 1.5 Cupcake is the first version of the OS to have an official dessert name and introduces a touch keyboard and a few interface enhancements.

Key New Features

• Onscreen keyboard and support for third-party keyboard apps.
• Widget support.
• Copy and paste available in the web browser.

Android 1.0 (No Nickname)

Final version: 1.1; released on September 23, 2008, and called Petit Four internally.

Initial version: Released on February 9, 2009.

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