It’s no secret that Android fans have a really hard time running the latest Android version on their non-Nexus devices. Google has not fixed this fragmentation problem, as Android updates are still controlled by device makers and carriers. Not including the Google Pixel, the hottest Android smartphones released this year are still on Android 6.0 Marshmallow. But some companies are already working on Android 7.0 updates, and Samsung just kicked off a Nougat beta program for its Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge flagships.
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The program is open to users in the US, UK, and South Korea, and will also launch in China. Samsung says that interested users have to register to get in the program, and applicants will be chosen on a first come, first served basis.
To apply for the program, Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge owners in these markets must have a Samsung Account, and download the Galaxy Beta Program from the Galaxy Apps or Samsung Member app — these Samsung apps are available in Google Play or Galaxy Apps, depending on their country of residence.
Yes, it doesn’t sound that easy, and it’s not. But at least you’re going to get a taste of Android 7.0 Nougat on the Galaxy S7 models, complete with Samsung’s latest UX. You’re also going to be able to provide feedback on “performance, reliability, and usability.”
Other devices aren’t included in the beta program for the time being. And it’s likely things will not change in that regard. So if you’re rocking a Galaxy S6, Galaxy Note 5, or any other older Galaxy branded handset, you’re still going to have to wait for Nougat — that is, if your device is compatible or supported.
