Google names next mobile OS version ‘Android KitKat’; teams up with Nestle, Hershey

Ending months of speculation about the name for the next release of Google’s Android operating system for mobile devices, the technology company has teamed up with Nestle and The Hershey Company to name the 4.4 version of the OS ‘Android KitKat’. The sweet-themed codenames began with Android Cupcake 1.5 in 2009, and have continued alphabetically through to Android Jelly Bean 4.3 released earlier this year.

“We couldn't imagine a better name for our Android K release than the chocolate treat that's been a favorite go-to snack among the team since the early days of Android,” said Marc Vanlerberghe, director of Android Marketing.

As part of the promotions, the official KitKat website has undergone a revamp and a promotional video poking fun at the dramatic debut of gadgets from competitors (quite obviously, Apple) has been released. View the video here:

“We are proud and excited to have one of the world's leading mobile innovators pair up with one of America's favorite chocolate brands,” said Jennifer Podhajsky, vice president, US Chocolate, The Hershey Company. “Google's choice to name their next Android platform release Kit Kat brings together two well-known icons from pop culture and technology and gives the classic jingle of 'Gimme a Break' a whole new meaning in the tech world,” he added.

The Hershey Company holds the licence for the KitKat trademark in the United States. In an e-mail interaction with VentureBeat.com, a Google spokesperson clarified that the deal did not involve exchange of money for using the Nestle brand name.

To mark the release of Android KitKat, more than 50 million specially branded KitKat bars will be available in 19 countries, including India.