Google announces Android 7.1 Nougat features; lists compatible device Gadgets Now

Google announces Android 7.1 Nougat features; lists compatible device  Gadgets Now


W DELHI: Google earlier this month launched itsPixel and Pixel XL smartphones. The two smartphones are also the first to support Google's latest Android 7.1 Nougat operating system out of the box. Now, the search giant has announced that most devices in its Nexus lineup too will be receiving the latest version of the OS within this month itself.

According to Dave Burke, VP of engineering, Android, those who are in the Android beta programme will be receiving the Developer Preview of the Android 7.1 Nougat within the next 20 days. "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 Burke.

The list of Nexus devices that will be receiving the Android 7.1 Nougat includes Motorola Nexus 6, HTC Nexus 9, Huawei Nexus 6P, LG Nexus 5X, Pixel C and the Asus Nexus Player. Android One-based devices will also be getting the new OS version. The first ones to get the update will be the Nexus 6P, 5X and the Pixel C, all of which were launched last year. It has also been mentioned that the final version of the Android 7.1 Nougat will arrive by December.

The addition features in Android 7.1 Nougat comprise as support for the company's DayDream VR, A/B system update, app shortcuts and image keyboard support. For developers, the OS version will bring App shortcut API, Circular app icon support, enhanced live wallpaper metadata, image keyboard support and storage manager intent.



Recently, the complete changelog of the Android 7.1 Nougat was shared by Android Police, revealing which features will reach Nexus devices and which ones will remain Pixel exclusive.


As per the list, non-Pixel smartphones will include Night Light (supposed to make display easy on the user's eyes), touch/display performance improvements, better system updates, Daydream VR mode and manual storage manager that identifies apps, files and apps using storage.

Features like Pixel launcher, Google Assistant, unlimited storage for 'Original' quality photos, Smart Storage feature, 24x7 phone/chat support with screen sharing, quick switch adapter for wired setup from Android or iPhone and a Sensor Hub processor will remain Pixel-exclusive. However, these are a subject to change by the time the final version comes out in December.

Why Motorola's Moto Z can be great for an entrepreneur

The Motorola I knew is back or seem to be coming back to life. I am not an insider and neither do I know any insiders, so no sources based story here. But from what one can see from the outside, the brand run by Lenovo is running somewhat independent. How a Rover and Jaguar runs under TATA.

Motorola, in my view, can give a run for the money to Apple if you are an OS agnostic and price sensitive person.

The latest offering from Motorola Moto Z is exciting. Not the phone actually which in my view can be contested and is similar to a lot of phones out in the market, barring the sleekness. But what is exciting are the Moto Mods. I am not sure of their performance as I am yet to try them but the very concept opens up a range of ideas, and third-party Mod accessories that I am sure will now hit the market.

Motorola has also released a developer's kit so who knows we get an induction Mod to cook our 2 Minute Maggie noodles on the go using the MOTO Prestige Induction Mod.

Samsung has a lot to worry as this could be Motorola's 'Holidays' Cashing time. Motorola has an opportunity to eat Samsung's lunch the way Micromax & Samsung ate Nokia's in the years 2009-2014.

The mod that caught my attention is the projector function. Something one craves for in the iPhone. There were rumours about the projection feature in iPhone 7 and iPhone 7plus, but that never happened.

Casting and Projecting are two different fundamental concepts. So I don't want to get on the Apple TV, Chromecast, media streamer debate.

People can invest much lesser in quality portable speakers so not sure about the JBL SoundBoost Speaker Mod at Rs 6,999 will excite or even the Hasselblad True Zoom Camera Mobile Mod for Rs 19,999 where you can buy an entry level DSLR camera at those costs.

But the projector mod can make a serious dent. Both professionals and general owners. Then again the Moto Insta Share Projector Mobile Mod is priced at a whopping premium of Rs 19,999.

Imagine walking into a meeting, and instead of carrying a laptop and struggling with the projector cables, you have a powerful full-function phone that projects at 480p. The 2 Minute Pitch to an investor by a startup seeking funds gets wrapped in time and is glazed with 'Technology used for Productivity. Could be a bit of a show off too! But then great tech ideas start with showing off and then become the trend.

What is strange is that Motorola had extensive branding and advertisements in all leading dailies, but the projector mod and others were simply not available anywhere. So why to make noise when the products are not there on the shelf?

But I am excited and would say go for it. Moto Z is revolutionary, future ready and sexy! And the concept has just unleashed unlimited possibilities.