Android Nougat is almost here. Basically, We already have got the idea how the next version of Android will look like from those 5 Dev Previews. But.. As a last minute refresher, we are listing the best features Android Nougat is coming with!
RELEASE DATE:
Based on several carrier leaks, the Android 7.0 Nougat release date looks to be Monday, August 22; at least for recent Nexus devices with other OEMs rolling out updates in the weeks and months to come. Take a look at our Android Nougat update schedule for more details on when you’re likely to see it. As always, Google won’t make a big song and dance of the new version, it will likely just casually appear as factory images, OTA images and a new section on the Android version page.
This year, rather than wait until Google I/O 2016, Google decided to release the first Android N developer preview on March 9, two full months earlier than expected. The Android N preview went live for the Nexus 6P, Nexus 5X, Nexus 6, Nexus 9 (Wi-Fi and LTE), Nexus Player and Pixel C on the Android Developers site. The first beta release candidate appeared during Google I/O on May 18, 2016.
The Android 7.0 Nougat release date was confirmed for Q3, 2016 a long while back and recent carrier leaks from Telus in Canada and Optus in Australia have listed a “late August” launch (Optus) and August 22 specifically (Telus). Last year, Telus accurately leaked the launch date for Android Marshmallow.
However, as we said above if promises are kept the HTC One A9 could see it within 2-3 weeks of the release, and within 3-4 months for the other HTC smartphones. Either way, it will be an exciting few months as summer comes to a close, not to mention HTC is building two new Nexus smartphones for Google. Once HTC shares more information we’ll update with all the details. Just know they’re committed to fast Android Nougat updates.
What’s New in Android Nougat?
Our link at the top of the page is an in-depth look at Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow vs Android 7.0 N, and everything that’s new and different with comparison photos. It goes over many of the key changes, so start there.
As a quick recap, the HTC Android 7.0 update will bring improved performance, better battery life with “Doze” features, split-screen multitasking, the recent apps button works like ALT+TAB and switches between the last used apps, and much more. Google has over 50 big changes in Android N. Like faster app installs, which are also smaller, a new JIT compiler, improved graphics and performance with the Vulkan API, revamped notifications with quick reply from the pulldown bar, customizable quick setting tiles and so much more.
A huge addition announced back at Google IO was “Android Instant Apps” which will enable Android to install small bits of an app (say, from a search result or web link) and allow one-time instant app usage. No installing an app and starting over. Android just adds what it needs for that moment, uses the app then removes those parts, and we’re done. Android N also has native support for Daydream, Google’s virtual reality push that will be a big focus in 2016-17.
Not to mention things like a better and improved Google Now or Search using the Google Assistant with machine learning, number blocking and call screening, and more than we know under the hood or behind the scenes.
Of course most of this will come with HTC Sense UI over the top, with additions like HTC Blinkfeed and other small tweaks that each manufacturer adds. Samsung has TouchWiz, HTC uses Sense UI, and LG has their own interface over stock Android as well. Not every new feature will be implemented, others will be changed, but this looks to be one big and exciting update to the Android operating system.
We just can’t wait for Android N anymore! Let’s see what Google has for us and how well it stands out from others. All we can do is wait till 22nd August and relax! 😀
