Now that Android 6.0 Marshmallow is out, the natural question amongst Motorola users is when they will get the newest Android firmware to date. For now, Marshmallow is only out on Google's proprietary Nexus lineup. Currently, Motorola looks poised to update Android 6.0 on the Moto X 2014, Moto X 2015, Moto G3 and Moto G2. It is not clear whether any devices within the Moto E Series will get the new Android.
Here is the list of devices that will receive Android 6.0 - courtesy of Motorola blog:
- 2015 Moto X Pure Edition (third-gen)
- 2015 Moto X Style (third-gen)
- 2015 Moto X Play
- 2015 Moto G (third-gen)
- 2014 Moto X Pure Edition in the US (second-gen)
- 2014 Moto X in Latin America, Europe and Asia (second-gen)
- 2014 Moto G and Moto G with 4G LTE2 (second-gen)
- 2014 Moto Maxx
- 2014 Moto Turbo
Of important reminder, Motorola has only confirmed that the Pure Edition of both Moto X 2015 and Moto X 2014 will get Android 6.0 Marshmallow. These two devices are the unlocked versions of the Moto X. However, this does not mean that the standard Moto X will necessarily be excluded from Marshmallow.
Happily, both the second and third generation Moto G will be receiving the new Android firmware as soon as it is available on Motorola.
Notable features for Android Marshmallow include Doze Mode, which puts devices into deep sleep when not it use. This extends battery life significantly. Additionally, the new Android Pay feature allows users to purchase items with a simple tap instead of having to open a separate app.
Marshmallow also has Direct Share, which allows easier distribution of photos, news and links to friends and family. Volume control has been simplified as well.
What is Holding Back Android 6.0 Marshmallow on Motorola
Longtime Android users will know that a new Android rollout requires a complicated process. However, new consumers may need a little introduction.
First, Google releases the newest Android update. In this case, that would be Android 6.0 Marshmallow. Usually, priority goes toward Google's own Nexus devices. As of October 5, the update has become available on Nexus 5, 6, 7 and 9. The Nexus Player also received Android 6.0 Marshmallow. The Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P comes with Marshmallow preinstalled.
Afterwards, it is up to the manufacturers to implement the newest Android firmware. Participating companies include Samsung, Sony, Motorola, LG and HTC. Those who purchased unlocked devices will be the earliest to receive the newest Android from their respective manufacturers.
Unfortunately, the vast majority of users in the United States are using devices that can only be used with wireless service providers such as Sprint, AT&T and Verizon. Consumers in such a situation will need to wait for their carriers to finish soak-testing before receiving the newest Android. Often, by the time the user receives the Android update, Google is already being releasing a newer version. Some carriers decide not to release an Android update, and will opt to wait for the next one. Hence, using devices through carriers usually means inconsistent Android updates. However, this is still the cheapest option for buying a smartphone or tablet.
