Google partners with KitKat to unveil the new “sweet” Android OS

Google has named the latest version of its Android mobile operating system (4.4) after the popular chocolate product, Nestlé’s KitKat. With this move, the tech giant continues the longstanding tradition of giving its OS “sweet-tooth” names of popular desserts including Cupcake, Gingerbread, Froyo, Jelly Bean and more. With so many “sugary” iterations, it’s the first time Google uses the name of a particular confectionary brand.

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Photo: A branded Andriod KitKat bars’ pack (click to enlarge)
Photo: Android robot-shaped KitKat mould
Photo: Android robot-shaped KitKat mould, copyright by Nestle
Photo: Android robot-shaped KitKat bars
Photo: Android robot-shaped KitKat bars, copyright by Nestle
Photo: Android KitKat statue at Google
Photo: Android KitKat statue at Google, copyright by Nestle

The branded deal is two-way and cross-promotional. While Google is picturing its Android robot with references to the KitKat visual aesthetics, the green tech character also appears on the promotional packaging of the confectionary. More than 50 million specially branded KitKat bars will be released in 19 countries including Australia, Brazil, Germany, India, Japan, Dubai, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States.

On the promo packs, consumers will find a link to the website android.com/kitkat, where they will be invited to enter a competition for a chance to win various prizes. The gifts will include a limited number of Google Nexus 7 tablets as well as credits to spend in Google Play. There’ll also be a small number of Android-shaped KitKat bars that will be available as prizes in select markets.

To support the launch of the new iteration of Android mobile operational system, Google has released a mockery video that definitely takes on Apple with its “confectionary perfectionary” narration style. Watch the parody spot below.