The very awaited Android 7.1 update is full of new features and all tech enthusiasts are eager to have it already. However, at the moment, this update is only available to the newly unveiled Pixel phones by Google that is yet to be released to the market. Those patient enough will get to appreciate and enjoy this update in early December though, when Google are set to release the Android 7.1 on their Nexus devices.
Android 7.1 Beta
The Alphabet subsidiary has also confirmed that it will run a beta program of the Android Nougat (v7.1) later this October. This will allow eager Nexus users, who own the Nexus 6P and Nexus 5X, to be the first to have access to the beta version of the update. The only other device to run this update alongside these two Nexus phones will be the Pixel C tablet. However, Google’s flagship premium devices, The Pixel and Pixel XL, which are planned for release on the 20th of October, are also set to ship with Android 7.1.
The beta version of this latest Android platform is being put out there to allow developers to make sure their apps conform to features offered by the Android 7.1. Despite the version been only an incremental update to the Android Nougat (v7.0), there are significant changes in it. These include a new app shortcut feature that’s similar to Apple’s 3D Touch function as well as support for the Daydream VR feature.
The other Nexus devices, Nexus 9 and Nexus 6, are expected to access the beta Android 7.1 later in December. This is according to Dave Burke, the engineering Vice President at Android. Burke pointed out that at the final release of the Android 7.1 update in early December, the complete line up of supported Android devices will all have access. This full lineup includes the Pixel C tablet, Nexus 6, 9 and Player.
Android Nougat features
The latest Android version from Google offers new features that can be categorized into performance based, security based and productivity based. Performance is centered on graphics capability and runtime on the platform. The newly introduced Vulkan 3D API used in this platform has a lower CPU overhead and allows more graphical detailing. There is also a newly introduced JTI Compiler that hastens the app install process by 75 percent.
Security features introduced in this platform include file based encryption as well as seamless updates. The seamless updating ensures that operating system updates are downloaded silently in the background. Also, Password resetting is more restricted under this advanced Android platform as it will no longer allow software or users to apply commands that clear passwords that are already set.
Productivity on this new platform is what excites the consumers the most. Starting off with the new Direct Reply feature that allows you to reply to messages as well as an email from the notification bar. The notification’s visibility will also be changeable by simply long-tapping then selecting an option.
Pixel Exclusive Features
The Google Pixel and Pixel XL phones will incorporate unique built-in features compared to other devices that will have the Android 7.1. The exclusive features are such as Google Assistant, Pixel Launcher, Pixel Camera and full time customer support. All these are not available in the core release of the Android 7.1 showing the superiority of these two flagship devices from Google. According to sources at the tech giant, support for Nexus products will continue through customer service and software updates. However, the Nexus devices will no longer enjoy the exclusivity of getting latest Android upgrades first as has been the case.
Non-Pixel Devices Features
Features available to Android 7.1 users on non-Pixel devices are the Night Light, which is a reply to Apple’s iOS Night Shift feature, and the Daydream VR support. There have also been great attempts to optimize the touch and display responsiveness on this platform. This is in addition to having app shortcuts to allow users skip sections of the software right from the home screen.
The Daydream VR support is bound to be received well among the Android 7.1 users. This is because it comes with the provision to experience the Daydream View headset that is set to launch this November.
Conclusion
Despite the fact that not all features will be available on Nexus phones this December, opting for the beta program is risky since it can make your device unstable. Therefore, it is advisable that Nexus users hold on till the December roll out of the Android 7. 1.
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