Google is pushing out the final update to the Android 7.1 Developer Preview before the official, stable build releases onto different platforms.
Like the first preview released in October, the new and final update will also support the company's older devices such as the Nexus 5X and 6P, the Pixel C and now, Google is also throwing the Nexus 9 into the mix.
What's In The Final Developer Preview?
No major updates are housed in the second developer preview, since the update is mostly targeted for developers who are putting final touch-ups on their applications for the official consumer release of Android 7.1.1.
The final developer preview includes a near-final build of various system behaviors and the user interface alongside numerous bug fixes and optimizations across Google apps and the system itself.
The final update would serve as the definitive test bed for developers' applications before the update finally pushes out officially, according to Dave Burke, VP of engineering for Android. Google has provided developers a host of tools to help them create rounded icons and app shortcuts that look like those you'll find on iOS.
The final update also comes with developer features and support for API Level 25, which were already introduced in the first developer preview.
How To Get Developer Preview 2
If you already have a compatible device that's enrolled in Google's Android Developer Program, your device is slated to automatically receive the update over the coming week. However, if you weren't able to enroll in the beta program, you may still opt-in your eligible Android smartphone or tablet to receive the developer preview over-the-air. Additionally, you may also opt to flash the update on your own.
To reiterate, the second and final developer preview will only be available on Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Pixel C and Nexus 9.
Android 7.1.1 Final Release
Google is hoping to release the final consumer version of Android 7.1.1 "in just a few weeks." Beginning in December, the software will roll out to all supported preview devices alongside Google's pair of flagships, the Pixel and Pixel XL.
Keep in mind however, that not all Pixel features will be carried over to Google's older devices. The system-wide Assistant feature alongside the custom Pixel Launcher will seemingly be exclusive on the Pixel phones.
It's a nice gesture from Google to continuously support its older devices despite its impassioned focus on its newer and better flagships. It's unclear how long the company will keep on supporting its older smartphones and tablets, but with exclusive features already on the Pixel, it's not hard to imagine that the Pixel pair will enjoy most of the benefits going forward.
