Have you ever wondered why some versions Android are named after sweets, and others are just numbers? With the release in 2020, the company radically changed the approach to naming its mobile operating system. This version was the first to receive only a numerical index without the traditional “dessert” codename like Android 11 in 2020 the company Google radically changed the approach to naming its mobile operating system. This version was the first to receive only a numeric index without the traditional "dessert" codename like KitKat or Oreo.
But what is actually hidden behind the name Android 11? Does this version have an internal codename known only to the developers? And why Google decided to abandon the long-standing tradition? In this article, we will not only reveal all the secrets of the name, but also tell you how this version influenced the ecosystem Android, what innovations it brought and why its release became a turning point for millions of users around the world.
The official name of Android 11: why only digital?
Since the launch of the first public version in 2008 Google sequentially assigned Android code names in alphabetical order, using the names of desserts: from Android 1.5 Cupcake to Android 10 (which was internally called Android Q, but did not receive public "dessert" name). However, with the release Android 11 in September 2020, the tradition was interrupted.
The official public name of the version is simply Android 11. No “dessert” associations, no letter designations for a wide audience. But this does not mean that the version does not have an internal code name! In the developer documentation and source code Android Open Source Project (AOSP) this version is referred to as Android R (from English Red Velvet Cake - "red velvet cake").
- 🍰 Traditional approach: Android 1.5–9.0 had public code names (Cupcake, Donut, Eclair and etc.).
- 🔢 New format: Starting with Android 10, Google switched to numeric numbering for users, keeping the letter designations (Q, R) only for developers.
- 📛 Reason for the changes: Simpler perception for a global audience - numbers are more universal, than the names of desserts, which may be unfamiliar in some cultures.
Interestingly, Google did not advertise the name Red Velvet Cake as actively as before. It leaked online thanks to leaks from internal documents and analysis of the source code. The company itself has focused on digital designation, emphasizing the maturity of the platform and its focus on professional users.
Internal code name: Red Velvet Cake - what does it mean?
Although for the general public Android 11 remained just the "eleventh version", in the technical documentation it appears as Android R, where R stands for Red Velvet Cake. This dessert was not chosen by chance:
- Alphabetical order: R follows Q (Android 10), continuing the tradition begun with Cupcake (C).
- Color association: Red velvet cake is associated with the color of the logo Android and symbolizes the "premium" status of the version.
- Cultural versatility: Unlike some previous names (for example, Marshmallow -marshmallow), Red Velvet Cake is familiar to many cultures, albeit under different names.
Fun fact: in the source code Android 11 you can find numerous references to Red Velvet Cakeincluding internal package names and variables. For example, in the configuration files there is a line RED_VELVET_CAKE, and in some system logs there is an abbreviation RVC.
| Android version | Public name | Internal code name | Year release |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | Android 10 | Android Q (Quince Tart) | 2019 |
| 11 | Android 11 | Android R (Red Velvet Cake) | 2020 |
| 12 | Android 12 | Android S (Snow Cone) | 2021 |
| 13 | Android 13 | Android T (Tiramisu) | 2022 |
Despite the fact that Google did not make a marketing campaign out of Red Velvet Cake enthusiasts and developers actively use this name in discussions. For example, in forums XDA Developers or Stack Overflow questions about Android 11 are often marked with the tag #redvelvetcake.
If you are developing applications for Android, pay attention to the variable Build.VERSION_CODES.R —it corresponds to API level 30, which was introduced in Android 11.
Why did Google abandon “dessert” names?
The decision Google to abandon public “dessert” names was due to several key factors:
⚠️ Attention: Marketing strategies Google may change. If you plan to use the version name for commercial purposes (for example, to advertise applications), check the current guidelines in the official documentation for developers.
- 🌍 Globalization: Dessert names are not always understood in all cultures. For example, Marshmallow (marshmallow) or Lollipop (lollipop) may be unfamiliar to users in some countries in Asia or Africa.
- 📱 Simplification of perception: The numbers are universal and immediately make it clear which version is newer. This is especially important for corporate users and developers.
- 🛠️ Technical necessity: As the number of versions grew, maintaining unique and memorable “dessert” names became more difficult. The alphabet ends with Z, and Google plans to develop Android for many more years.
- 🎨 Rebranding: Starting with Android 10, the company has become focus on visual style and functionality rather than on the name.
Interestingly, internal code names for letters of the alphabet (Android R, Android S etc.) have been preserved. This allows developers to quickly navigate the documentation without getting confused about versions. For example, targetSdkVersion "R" in the file build.gradle unambiguously indicates Android 11.
The rejection of “dessert” names also influenced how Google presents new versions. Now the emphasis is on features and opportunitiesrather than on the marketing name. For example, Android 11 was positioned as a version for “digital well-being” (Digital Wellbeing) and improved notification management.
How to find the version of Android on your device?
If you want to check whether Android 11is installed on your smartphone, you can do this in a few seconds. The instructions are universal for most devices, including Samsung, Xiaomi, Google Pixel and others:
☑️ Checking the Android version
- Open the application Settings (icon gears).
- Scroll down and select
About phone(on some devices -About deviceorSoftware information). - Find the section
Software information. - The line
Android versionwill indicate 11 (if you have this particular version).
On some devices (for example, Samsung with shell One UI) the path may be slightly different:
Settings → Device maintenance → Software information → Android version.
If your device runs on Android 11, but you do not see the number 11, but instead something like RKQ1.200826.002 is displayed - this is the internal build number. The version itself Android must be specified. in a separate line.
What to do if the Android version is not updated?
If your device is not receiving the update to Android 11, this may be due to manufacturer policy. Many brands (for example, Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei) only support updates for flagship models from the last 2-3 years. In this case, you can:
1. Check for updates manually in the settings.
2. Install custom firmware (for example, LineageOS) if your device is supported by the developer community.
3. Consider purchasing a new smartphone if the current one is outdated.
Which devices received Android 11?
Android 11 was released on September 8, 2020, and the first smartphones to receive it were Google Pixel (starting from Pixel 2). However, the list of supported devices depended on the manufacturers' policies. Here are the key brands and their approach to updates:
| Manufacturer | Models that received Android 11 | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pixel 2, 2 XL, 3, 3 XL, 3a, 3a XL, 4, 4 XL, 4a, 5 | The update arrived on release day | |
| Samsung | Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra, Note 20, Note 20 Ultra, Z Fold 2, Z Flip | The update was released in stages by region |
| Xiaomi | Mi 10, Mi 10 Pro, Mi 10 Ultra, Redmi K30 Pro, POCO F2 Pro | Some models required manual checking for updates |
| OnePlus | OnePlus 8, 8 Pro, 7T, 7T Pro, Nord | The update arrived within 1-2 months after release |
It is important to understand that not all devices received it Android 11. Manufacturers usually support flagship models for 2-3 years from release, while budget smartphones may only receive 1-2 major updates. For example, Samsung Galaxy S9 (2018) remained on Android 10, despite the fact that technically it could support the new version.
⚠️ Attention: If your device has not received an update to Android 11 officially, but you see offers to download “firmware” from third-party sites - be careful! Such files may contain malware or be unstable. Always check the source and reviews before installing.
To check the availability of the update on your device, go to:
Settings → System → Update systems (the path may vary slightly depending on the shell).
How is Android 11 different from previous versions?
Android 11 brought many innovations that changed how users interact with devices. Here are the key features that set this version apart from its predecessors:
- 📱 Manage notifications: Notifications are now grouped by application and type (for example, "Conversations", "Updates", "System"). You can prioritize messages from specific contacts.
- 🔌 One-time permissions: Apps can request one-time permission to access your microphone, camera, or location. After closing the application, access is automatically reset.
- 🎮 Game mode: Built-in tools for streamers, including quick access to screen recording settings and turning off notifications during gameplay.
- 🔄 Bubbles: New way to display chats - in the form of floating bubbles, like in Facebook Messenger.
- 📁 Improved file management: The built-in file manager received support for operations with archives (ZIP, RAR) without additional applications.
One of the most noticeable changes was the implementation of API for 5G. Android 11 became the first version that fully supported fifth-generation networks, including dynamic connection management to save battery power.
It is also worth noting improvements in the area privacy:
- Applications can no longer receive information about other installed apps.
- Access to the storage is now divided into Scoped Storage, which limits applications from accessing files of other apps.
- New restrictions for background processes, which has a positive effect on battery life.
Android 11 has become a transitional version between "classic" Android and modern privacy standards. Many changes, such as Scoped Storage, laid the groundwork for stricter rules in Android 12 and 13.
Android 11 issues and bugs: what you need to know?
- 🔋 Rapid battery drain: Especially on devices Samsung i OnePlus in the first weeks after the update. Partially solved by rolling back to factory settings.
- 📶 Problems with Wi-Fi and mobile network: On some models (for example, Xiaomi Mi 10) spontaneous disconnections from the network were observed.
- 🎵 Media playback errors: In rare cases, music applications (for example, Spotify) could be interrupted when the screen is locked.
- 🔒 Conflicts with banking applications: Some applications (for example, SberBank Online) required updating to work correctly on Android 11.
Most of these problems were fixed in subsequent patches. However, if you plan to update to Android 11 on an older device, it is recommended that you:
⚠️ Attention: Before updating to Android 11 on devices with limited memory (less than 32 GB), free up at least 3-4 GB of space. Otherwise, the system may freeze during installation.
☑️ Preparing to update to Android 11
If after the update you encounter critical bugs, you can try the following steps:
1. Reboot the device.
2. Clear the system cache in recovery mode (Recovery Mode).
3. Reset the network settings (Settings → System → Reset → Reset Wi-Fi, mobile network and Bluetooth settings).
4. As a last resort, reset to factory settings (don't forget about the backup copy!).
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Android 11
Is it possible to install Android 11 on an old device that is not officially supported?
Technically yes, but with reservations, you can install custom firmware on the base. Android 11 (for example LineageOS 18.1), if your device is supported by the developer community. However, please note:
- Performance may be lower than on the official firmware.
- Some functions (for example, banking applications or DRM for streaming services) may not work.
- To install, you will need to unlock the bootloader (
bootloader), which will reset all data.
Before installation, check the forums XDA Developers or the official website of the selected firmware for compatibility with your model.
Why is my device not receiving the update to Android 11, although it is quite new?
This may be due to several factors:
- Manufacturer's policy: Some brands (for example, Huawei after sanctions) limit updates.
- Regional features: Updates may be released step by step by country.
- Telecom operator: Some operators block updates for “locked” devices.
- Technical limitations: The manufacturer may not have adapted the firmware for your model.
To speed up the process, try:
- Manually check for updates in the settings.
- Install the official software through the manufacturer's utility (for example, Samsung Smart Switch or Xiaomi Mi Flash).
- Contact support indicating the model and region.
How to roll back from Android 11 to Android 10 if the new version is unstable?
A rollback is possible, but requires caution. You will need:
- Find the official firmware Android 10 for your model (usually available on the manufacturer's website).
- Unlock the bootloader (if it is locked).
- Install the firmware via
fastbootor a special utility (for example, Odin for Samsung).
⚠️ Important: Rolling back will reset all data on the device! Also note that some applications may stop working after downgrading the Android version.
For devices Google Pixel can be used official images from Google For other brands, look for instructions on. forums (for example 4PDA or XDA).
Do Android 11 support applications written for older versions?
Yes, Android 11 retains backward compatibility with most applications, but there are nuances:
- Target SDK: If the application uses older APIs (for example,
targetSdkVersionbelow 30), some functions may be limited. - Permissions: Applications will need to request new permissions (for example, to access files).
- Scoped Storage: Applications that work with files must be adapted to the new storage rules.
If an application has not been updated for several years, it may:
- Display incorrectly (for example, stretch on new screens).
- Not have access to some functions (for example, the camera in the background).
- Give a warning about not being optimized the first time launch.
Developers can check the compatibility of their software with Android 11 via Android Studio and an emulator with API 30.
What alternatives to Android 11 exist for older devices?
If your device does not supports Android 11, but you want to get similar functionality, consider the following options:
| Alternative | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| LineageOS 18.1 | Custom firmware based on Android 11 | No unnecessary water, regular updates | Requires bootloader unlocking |
| GrapheneOS | Android with an emphasis on privacy | High level security | Supports a limited list of devices |
| /e/OS | Android without Google services | Good alternative for privacy | Not all applications work correctly |
| HavocOS | Firmware with advanced customization | Many themes and settings | May be less stable |
Before installing any alternative firmware:
- Make sure your model is supported (check on the official firmware website).
- Make a full one data backup.
- Study reviews of other users about stability.