Android 6.0 Marshmallow is now officially out, but only on a limited scale with Google's Nexus series. Consumers using the Sony Xperia Z5, Xperia Z5 Compact, Xperia Z4 and Xperia Z3 will need to wait for further announcements. That is because it will take time for third-party manufacturers such as Sony to implement the newest Android firmware to date. As such, the release date on Sony's handset lineup has yet to be announced.

Even so, Sony is actively engaging the public with a beta test program. The tests only apply to Xperia Z3 and Xperia Z3 Compact owners who have reserved their spot with Sony. Unfortunately, the opportunity to sign up has already expired.

On Tuesday, October 27, Xperia Blog reported that Sony Mobile has released the latest Android 6.0 Marshmallow concept to participating testers. Changes include the ability to double tap to wake, MIDI support thru USB, updated keyboard and support for more bit rates for FLAC audio. The blog also stated that the update was released over-the-air under the build number MRA58K.Z1.2085.

According to Trusted Reviews, Sony has already confirmed that the majority of its mainstream devices will get Android 6.0 Marshmallow in the future. These include the "Xperia Z5, Xperia Z5 Compact, Xperia Z5 Premium, Xperia Z4 Tablet, Xperia Z3+, Xperia Z3, Xperia Z3 Compact, Xperia Z3 Tablet Compact, Xperia Z2, Xperia Z2 Tablet, Xperia M5, Xperia C5 Ultra, Xperia M4 Aqua and Xperia C4."

What is in Android 6.0 Marshmallow?

At first look, Android 6.0 Marshmallow is not too visually dissimilar with the previous Android Lollipop. The differences between the two Android versions like in the functions. For instance, Voice Search has been revamped with four colored dots that form a sound wave. The shapes rotate as the user speaks.

One notable difference is Google Now on Tap. Though not a new feature, Google Now made consumers' lives easier by providing an important reminder, relevant notifications and other useful information. Marshmallow enhances the experience by making improvements to Google Now. This time, Now on Tap can come up with relevant suggestions based on what is immediately on the users' screen. There are many uses for this function.

Perhaps, the biggest deal so far is Google's highly-anticipated Android Pay. Similar to Apple Pay and Samsung Pay, this technology allows touchless payment at participating merchants.