The Sony Android 8.0 Oreo update is already available for select users. On August 21st Google officially released its next big software update. Nexus and Pixel users received it months ago, but everyone else is still waiting. Here’s everything we know and what to expect from Sony Android 8.0 Oreo updates.
Surprisingly, Sony is the first manufacturer other than Google to release Oreo, starting with the Xperia ZX Premium. We’ll go over that and all other devices below.
Google’s new Android 8.0 release is loaded with new features, revamped notifications, better battery management, and picture-in-picture support. All of which is coming to Sony smartphones. During the Oreo announcement, Google confirmed multiple partners were already working on updates and Sony is one of them. Here’s what we know so far.
Popular smartphones from all major manufacturers will get a free update to Android 8.0 Oreo in the coming months. First, Google delivered it to Nexus and Pixel devices. Then manufacturers started beta tests. However, Sony beat them all to the punch. Additionally, Sony already released two phones running Oreo, the ZX1 Compact, and the Xperia XA1 Plus.
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Sony Android 8.0 Oreo Updates
While it’s great that Sony already released a few phones running Google’s latest software update, that doesn’t help current owners. Those with the original Xperia X lineup, Xperia XZ Premium, and Xperia XA devices are wondering when they’ll get the tasty treat and software update.
Thankfully, earlier this year Sony unveiled a full update roadmap. Here is the Sony Android 8.0 Oreo update list, and more might get added at a later date. The company confirmed updates for:
- Xperia X
- Xperia X Performance
- Xperia XZ
- Xperia X Compact
- Xperia XZ Premium
- Xperia XZs
- Xperia XA1
- Xperia XA1 Ultra
- Xperia Touch and Xperia XA1 Plus
As you can see above, Sony has a long list of devices that will receive Android 8.0 Oreo sooner than later. That lineup includes premium flagship smartphones, budget devices, and everything else the company has to offer. Including the Touch, Sony’s Android-powered projector. This is an encouraging sign for owners, knowing that any Sony device will get support.
However, every device in Sony’s Android 8.0 Oreo update roadmap is around 14 months old, or newer. If you’re still using a device that’s almost two years old, or older, it’s not on the list. So while we’re glad to see a wide range of phones getting an update, phones more than a year old are right on the edge of losing support.
If we learn more information about older devices or see some additions to the list we’ll update with all the details.
Sony Android 8.0 Oreo Update Timeframe
As we said earlier, two Sony phones already have Android 8.0 Oreo. Additionally, the impressive Sony Xperia XZ Premium is getting Oreo starting October 23rd. This is a staggered release, and it may take up to two weeks before all users get the update. Sony slowly rolls it out to more and more devices until everyone gets it.
So, what about everyone else with other phones and devices? The company has become one of Google’s best partners in terms of software updates. They were first to Nougat with the Xperia X Performance last year, and things are moving quickly again with Oreo.
However, we don’t have an exact timeframe for any other Sony devices at this time. It’s a promising sign to see one rolling out already, and we expect more throughout November and December. At the end of the day, expect an update to Android 8.0 Oreo on your Sony device within the next 2-4 months. If the company shares a full timeline, we’ll update this information.
What’s New in Android 8.0 Oreo?
There are lots of new Android O features that you can use to do more with your phone and tablet. Users will enjoy bundled notifications that are easier to manage or the new picture-in-picture mode for video. Essentially allowing you to watch a video (or video chat) while doing other things on the phone at the same time. There are changes to the icons, an easy text selection tool, and auto-fill in apps like Google Chrome. Not to mention faster performance and big changes to make your battery last longer.
Here is a detailed list explaining some of the many new features. Basically, expect a faster, smarter, better and smooth experience throughout.
Additionally, Sony themselves added a lot to this software update. You’ll get all the new features and changes from Google, then enhancements and bug fixes from Sony. The one with the most excitement is the Sony 3D Creator tool — the companies acclaimed 3D scanning feature.
You’ll also enjoy Predictive Capture for smiles, auto-focus bursts, improved sound-quality, app shortcuts, and better battery management on top of Sony’s already great experience. Select features or changes will apply to individual devices based on availability and product support.
Final Thoughts
Right now, Android 8.0 Oreo updates for most devices are a complete mystery. Most manufacturers are still busy working on it or just starting beta testing. It’s a positive sign to see Sony ready to roll it out for one phone, and preparing others behind the scenes.
Get the latest Android 8.0 Oreo update on the Premium today, or stay tuned for more details. Once Sony concludes that rollout, expect announcements for more phones or products. We’ll update with more information the minute it’s available.
