Rumor: Google Releasing Android 6.0 ‘Key Lime Pie’ in 2013

It seems like just the other day we were talking about the coming of Android 5.0, Jellybean. Now that the future is old news, we need the future’s future, which will of course, be Android 6.0, a.k.a., Key Lime Pie. What does Google have in store with the sixth iteration of its mobile operating system? And, more importantly, is it too soon to say? Here’s what I’m thinking …

The Verge asserts the same source who tipped off the site about Android 5.0 Jellybean has spilled the beans on Key Lime Pie (KLP) as the dessert-based moniker for Android 6.0. The Verge also believes it’s slated for a 2013 release. And that’s it. There are no other whispers, hints, rumors, buzz or factoids about Google’s plans.

So then, what’s the point? Well, the leak of a codename suggests the following things:

• Google may be on a fast track to update Android twice a year. Ice Cream Sandwich is just starting to make its way into phones while Jellybean is slated for a fall 2012 launch. That would be two major Android updates inside 2012 (despite Ice Cream Sandwich’s 2011 announcement.) An early 2013 launch of KLP would continue and confirm this cycle.
• Android 6.0 in 2013 could be the first version of Android with integrated software and hardware. By 2013, we should have a better look at what Google plans on doing with Motorola Mobility. Don’t be surprised if Google unleashes Android 6.0 with a Motorola-based phone that has no markings or makings of the Motorola brand.
• Google is playing catch up. No, Google isn’t behind, not now anyway, but it could be soon if it doesn’t start innovating. Figuring out what needs to be in Android 6.0 now is a step in the right direction, demonstrating Google is thinking long-term. And slating KLP for a 2013 release also could mean Google may want Android 6.0 as polished as possible, especially if impending Windows 8 tablets are anything to worry about.

Like most rumors of this kind, a wait-and-see approach typically yields the truth. But if Key Lime Pie is the name for Android 6.0, it gives us plenty of time to figure out what “L” dessert will come with Android 7.0. Licorice? Lady Fingers? Perhaps the most obvious, Lollipop? These are important questions. Got a better idea of what Google plans on doing with Key Lime Pie? Drop off a comment and let’s discuss it.