Contrary to expectations created by Google, the first Pixel 9 units shipped to consumers are not equipped with Android 15, but are still running a version of Android 14.
After months of speculation and anticipation, Google has officially launched the Pixel 9 series, featuring a new interface and AI-based innovations, all designed to run on Android 15, the latest version of the operating system. However, Android 15 does not come pre-installed on the new Pixel 9, which left early adopters surprised and somewhat disappointed.
Google has not given an official explanation for the absence of Android 15 on the new phones, but it is assumed that this version of the operating system is not yet ready for the final release. In recent weeks, rumors of delays have been fueled by issues and bugs discovered in Android 15 betas, suggesting that the development team needs more time to reach a satisfactory level of performance and stability. Android 15 brings major changes, which put pressure on the development team.
To deal with these delays, Google has created a temporary firmware version that integrates interface elements and features from Android 15 based on the Android 14 core. For example, features like the new Gemini Live overlay and the Pixel Studio image generator are available, but other features like Private Space are missing from the Pixel 9 with Android 14. The other Pixel AI features, including “Add Me” and “Reimagine,” are still functional on Android 14.
As for the update to Android 15, Pixel 9 users may have to wait a while longer, with unofficial sources suggesting that the next “Pixel Drop” could come in October. There are also concerns that Android 15 is already starting to “eat up” the first year of the Pixel 9's seven years of guaranteed major updates.
