14 DAY TRIAL // We reported recently that Google might announce two new smartphones, the Pixel and Pixel XL, rebranded from Nexus Sailfish and Marlin, at the beginning of next month. But this might not be the only treat that Google is preparing for the October 4 event, as the company is also expected to preview the Android-Chrome OS merger, dubbed Andromeda.
Google is apparently testing Andromeda Android-Chrome OS hybrid on HTC's Nexus 9, according to 9to5Google. The report details some evidence found in the Android 7.0 Nougat AOSP. Apparently, there's a file used for conducting a set of low-level tests to measure graphics performance.
The test directly mentions Andromeda multiple times, including the fact that “Andromeda devices require higher performance score.” The tool mentions that the minimum score needed for Andromeda is 8.0, while Android needs a score of at least 4.0. Nexus 9 manages to record a score of around 8.8 when it comes to graphics performance.
Andromeda hybrid OS will be featured on laptops and tablets
A source also told 9to5Google that early builds of Andromeda are being run on the Nexus 9. Not much information is available on this for now, but Google might actually be testing Andromeda hybrid on the HTC-made Nexus 9 tablet.
Rumors say that Andromeda is focused on making Android more suitable for laptops, tablets and 2-in-1 devices. The report also mentions that “free-form window management” was referenced inside the code, which means that the feature could debut in Andromeda.
Whatever the case, it won't be long until October 4 when Google will also reveal the two upcoming Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones, created together with HTC. Android and Chrome OS SVP Hiroshi Lockheimer has recently stated that the October 4 event will have historic importance for Google, similar to the day when Android was first launched.
Google is heavily promoting the event, with a statue placed in Brooklyn, New York, as well as a video advertisement and numerous posters.