In what could be taken as a hint for early arrival of Google's Android 6.0 Marshmallow to Sony devices, the software concept has been rolled out to the Xperia Z3 and the Z3 Compact.

Sony is one of the first smartphone makers to announce the devices that will receive the Android 6.0 Marshmallow. The firmware should be rolled out to Sony smartphones early next year if history is anything to go by but it wouldn't come as a surprise if the OTA update comes early, as the firmware concept has been released.

"You'll be excited to know that certain quick-fingered Android fans are now currently enjoying the experience of exploring our Android Marshmallow concept on Xperia Z3 and Z3 Compact," announced Sony Mobile on its blog. 

"This is the first phase, with the software concept rolling out gradually over the coming weeks – we'll be keeping you up to date right here on the blog with all the new features and experiences that participants are helping us build," it added.

It may be recalled that Japanese electronics giant had earlier revealed AOSP Android 6.0 Marshmallow configuration and binary files for its devices which will allow developers to run the software on the compatible handsets.

Sony devices that will receive the new software update when released are 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.