It’s only been a couple of months since Android Nougat’s release, but Google still doesn’t seem to be slowing down apparently. Android Nougat 7.1.1 is on its way, though for now only a few devices will get the update. From what’s known of the update, only Google’s Pixel and Nexus smartphones will be getting it. The update comes packed with improved performance, cool new emojis and a few other surprises.
Fortunately, not all features of the update cater to the Nexus and Pixel smartphones. Many new features will be made available for all Android devices eligible for the update. However, contrary to many speculations, the Google Assistant will not be coming with the 7.1.1 update.
Which devices will be getting the update?
Google’s Pixel or Pixel XL will be getting the update along with a few other Nexus devices including the Nexus 6, Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, and Nexus 9. According to Google, eligible devices will get an over-the-air update automatically.
What’s new in Android 7.1.1?
If you remember, Google scrapped App Shortcuts during the Nougat beta program. But Google apparently had second thoughts as the 7.1.1 will feature a fully functional App Shortcuts that would be mimicking the 3D touch features iOS 9 boasts about.
The Pixel Launcher already supports the feature. But other devices will have to rely on third party apps to enable the feature. Consequently, professionals in the android development sector will be getting a lot of busy weeks soon. It was stated on the Android Developers website that an app can have up to five shortcuts.
The next best thing is the addition of the ‘restart’ option in Android’s power menu. It can be accessed by pressing and holding the power button. There are changes in the Android’s Settings menu as well. The update adds a new ‘Moves’ menu in Settings which will include quite a few actions that can be done by gestures, like double pressing power button to launch camera, and double twisting the wrist to switch in and out of selfie mode.
Another welcome feature is the Image Keyboard which enables users to browse, select, and send content like pictures, GIFs, emojis, stickers etc. from any messaging app. At present, only Google Allo, Messenger apps, and Hangouts support the feature. But it was confirmed that third party app support is in the works.
The Camera app has also been revamped, and the features include exposure compensation, presets for white balance, auto exposure, auto focus lock, and viewfinder grid modes. The app’s Smart Burst feature takes multiple photos, and selects the best one for the user. The Smart Storage feature automatically removes old images and videos to make space, by backing them up to Google Photos.
Hassle-free upgrade?
The way the Android device will install updates has also changed, and is now similar to how Chromebooks install updates. The updates will be automatically installed on a separate partition in the background, while the device is in use. Once the installation is complete, the user will be prompted for a restart. Upon restart, the device will swap its stock partition with the updated partition, effectively updating the device without hassle.
