How to get device (AOSP) Build Number in Android devices programmatically?

Getting Device Build Number in Android

This article will guide you on how to obtain the Android device’s build number programmatically. This number, also known as the AOSP build number, is essential for various purposes, such as:

• Identifying device software version
• Debugging and troubleshooting issues
• Retrieving system information

Methods to Get Build Number

1. Using Build.VERSION.INCREMENTAL

The most direct way to access the build number is using the Build.VERSION.INCREMENTAL constant provided by the Android SDK. This constant holds the incremental build number, which is often formatted as a string like “XXXXXXX” or “YYYYMMDDHHMMSS” (e.g., “20230815170000”).

import android.os.Build;

// ...

String buildNumber = Build.VERSION.INCREMENTAL;
System.out.println("Build Number: " + buildNumber);

Build Number: 20230815170000

2. Using Build.DISPLAY

Another option is to use the Build.DISPLAY constant. This constant provides a more user-friendly string representation of the build number. It often includes additional information, such as the Android version, security patch level, and other relevant details.

import android.os.Build;

// ...

String displayString = Build.DISPLAY;
System.out.println("Display String: " + displayString);

Display String: Android 13 - 2023-08-15 - Security Patch Level 2023-08-01

3. Using Build.VERSION_CODES

If you need the Android API level, you can use Build.VERSION_CODES.

import android.os.Build;

// ...

int apiLevel = Build.VERSION_CODES.S;
System.out.println("API Level: " + apiLevel);

API Level: 31

Comparison of Methods

Choosing the Right Method

The best method for obtaining the build number depends on your specific requirements.

• If you need the raw build number, use Build.VERSION.INCREMENTAL.
• For a user-friendly display of build details, use Build.DISPLAY.
• To determine the Android API level, use Build.VERSION_CODES.