Following the trend to name updates after sweets, the latest update to Google’s Android devices is the 7.0 Nougat software. The Android Nougat update is now available for download on certain devices and will be standard on some of the newest devices yet to be launched. Read on to learn more about which devices will be able to support this update, some of the key features, and how much new devices will run.
Android Nougat Key Features
The Android Nougat update has made some improvements on old software and has added some new features. First, there are more emojis. Over 1,500 to be exact, including just over 70 brand new ones. The update allows you to choose from several skin tones for people emojis.
2015’s 6.0 Marshmallow update debuted Doze, a feature which powered down your phone while it was sitting still, which kept it from draining your battery and greatly helped to increase battery life. Android Nougat improves upon Doze, having your phone enter its low power mode while it is locked in your pocket even while you’re moving.
Quick Switch allows you to jump between your two most recently used apps. All you need to do is double tap the overview button.
Direct Reply gives you the option to reply to a message or email directly from the notification itself, rather than needing to open the app. This increases your response time, thus enhancing your productivity.
The Multi Window feature allows you to have two apps open at the same time, side by side. Now you can watch a video and reply to a text at the same time, so if you receive an important message, you don’t have to interrupt your video to answer it. The Android Nougat update supports both the Vulcan TM and Daydream, Google’s virtual reality platforms. This is a great feature for those who are getting into VR gaming.
Android Nougat has also made some security updates. First, Seamless Updates allows you to download software updates in the background while you are still using the phone and doesn’t need to wait for your apps to sync. File based encryption provides better protection of different user’s files. And Trusted Face has been improved. The facial recognition software is less sensitive to lighting, angles and facial decorations like sunglasses or a hat. However, Trusted Face is only available on certain phones.
What Devices Is Android Nougat Available On?
Android Nougat is available for update on several phones and tablets.
Nexus Devices
- Nexus 6
- Nexus 5X
- Nexus 6P
- Nexus 9
- Nexus Player.
It is also available on the Google Pixel C and the Android One.
Sony Devices
- Xperia Z3+
- Xperia Z4
- Xperia tablet
- Xperia Z5 Compact
- Z5 Premium
- Xperia X
- Xperia XA
- Xperia XA Ultra
- Xperia X Performance.
HTC Devices
- HTC 10
- HTC One A9
- HTC One M9
Motorola Devices
- Moto G4 Plus
- Moto Z
- Moto ZForce
- Moto ZPlay
- Moto G4
You can also update to Android Nougat on the Samsung Galaxy S7 and the Galaxy S7 Edge.
There are several new products that have yet to be launched that will come with Android Nougat software already installed. These devices include the LG V20, the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 and new Nexus phones.
What’s the Cost?
The Android Nougat update itself is free, so if you already have a phone that is capable of supporting it, you won’t have to pay anything. However, if you are looking for a used device to update, or one of the new devices that will come with Android Nougat already installed, the actual cost of the phone will vary depending upon the carrier or where you buy the used phone from. If you’re looking to buy brand new, phones are projected to cost between $600 and $800. Used phones vary, but on average range from $250 up to about $500. Tablets can cost upwards of $800.
Do you have Android Nougat on your device? Let us know what you think about it in the comments below!
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