Android L Release Leapfrogs Nexus 5, Coming First To Moto X (2014), Moto G In Soak Test

The Nexus 5 was the front-runner to be the first device to receive the Android L 5.0 (Lollipop) update from Google, with the Nexus 4 coming shortly thereafter, but it appears as if the “Stock” smartphone line has ceded its reign to Motorola. A member of the manufacturer’s early update, or “soak test” program revealed that the Moto X (2014) is ready to rock material design.

Android devices developed by Google under the Nexus banner have traditionally been the first to receive the tech titan’s updates. Motorola put documents up on its website for the Moto X (2014) as well as the Moto G (2014) on Friday evening, which it has since pulled down.

The Nexus 5 had a since-fixed battery bug delaying its Android L update, but it is not immediately clear why Motorola is beating Google (and LG) to the punch. Ars Technica suggested that Google might be saving the Android L’s Nexus debut for the release of the Nexus 6 – although the delay could be due in part to other unfixed software problems on the Nexus 4 (2012) and 5 (2013).

The first Moto X model to receive Android L is Motorola’s unlocked “Pure Edition.” Motorola has been faster than any other manufacturer, outside of Google’s Nexus program, to offer Android updates on its smartphones since it was owned by the search giant. Motorola, now owned by Lenovo, has continued to tinker with the operating system less than other manufacturers.

Android L is currently rolling out to Moto X owners who signed up for the smartphone’s “soak test” and could see a wider release should they not report any glaring errors. The decision to pull down the pages describing the update could mean that Motorola jumped the gun, and will not officially roll out the software for a few days.