The Android 7.1 Nougat operating system has so far been exclusive only to Google's flagship devices such as the Pixel and Pixel XL, but rumors suggest that other Nexus devices will soon receive the new firmware too.
In early October, Google revealed that the developer preview of Android 7.1 Nougat would be available by October's end.
"Later this month we'll be bringing you the Android 7.1 platform as an open Developer Preview, similar to what we did for Android 7.0. You'll be able to test and build on the new platform and try the latest features," said Dave Burke, VP for engineering at Google.
The company has kept its promise as reports suggest that this version of Android 7.1 Nougat is set for release for several Nexus devices, namely the Nexus 6P, Nexus 5X and Pixel C Tablet.
People who are enrolled in the Android Beta program can now get a taste of Android 7.1 Nougat.
According to a NeuroGadget report, Nexus devices including the Nexus 6, Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Nexus 9, Pixel C, Nexus Player and Android One are estimated to get an Android 7.1 Nougat software update by December. An exact release date for the upgrade remains unknown for now.
Other non-Nexus phones should get the Android 7.1 Nougat update once it has been rolled out to Nexus devices.
Android 7.1 Nougat, of course, delivers the performance, productivity and security of Android 7.0 Nougat along with some new APIs, bug fixes and optimizations, Google says.
With Android 7.1 Nougat, customers will get new features such as circular app icons. The update also brings enhanced live wallpaper metadata.
The upcoming software update will provide image keyboard support, which expands the content that can be entered by users from their handset's keyboards. This will allow customers to express themselves with animated GIFs, custom stickers and more.
Apps will let users know what kind of content to use, and keyboards will deliver images and contents to the user.
Android 7.1 Nougat will also bring better storage management to devices. Users will be able to access a fresh Settings screen that will allow them to easily delete unused files.
Many customers will be waiting for Android 7.1 Nougat, but Google has not confirmed a release date for the software. Users will have to take all rumors regarding the software release with a pinch of salt.
We will keep you updated as to when Google will roll out Android 7.1 Nougat.
