Google began rolling out the Android 7.1.1 Nougat update for its mobile devices this week, including the brand new Pixel phones and several of the older Nexus smartphones. The best thing about it? Nexus fans will finally get access to some of the new Nougat goodies that were restricted to Pixel phones until now.
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As per Google’s announcement, the Android 7.1.1 release is compatible with a variety of devices, including the Nexus 6, Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Nexus 9, Pixel, Pixel XL, Nexus Player, Pixel C and General Mobile 4G. The update should be available as an over-the-air (OTA) download, and those devices that are enrolled in the Android Beta Program will also receive this final version.
Android 7.1.1 will bring “many of the cool features of Pixel to everyone,” Google notes. The list includes the more inclusive emoji that are already available on the Pixel and Pixel XL phones. The keyboard now supports GIF sharing on certain apps, including Google Allo, Google Messenger, and Hangouts.
App shortcuts from the home screen will be available to anyone, Google said. “Launch actions on your favorite apps, such as Twitter or Google Maps, by simply long pressing the app icon,” Google explains. “Jump directly into an existing conversation on Google Messenger or start an entirely new one – all straight from the app icon.”
If you rock a Pixel phone, then Android 7.1.1 will bring you a couple of exclusive features, including support for raise-to-wake and double tap. The first gesture will turn on the screen to show you notifications, while the second will let you tap with two fingers on the display to see alerts.
In case the OTA download has not reached your device, you can manually install it by getting the factory images and OTA files — check the source links below.
