Android 7.1 Nougat, the latest version of the platform, was recently introduced by Android engineering VP Dave Burke. The new update is based on Android 7.0 and provides new features for both developers and consumers. Android 7.1 will particularly arrive on various Nexus products in December 2016.
According to Burke's blog post, Android 7.1 will deliver the performance, productivity and security of Android 7.0 Nougat, as well as several more features, bug fixes, optimizations and APIs. Android 7.1 will add new capabilities for developers that will help them drive engagement in their app and enjoy improved user experience. Some of the add-ons for developers include app shortcuts API, enhanced live wallpaper metadata, image keyboard support, storage manager intent and circular app icons support.
The Android 7.1 Developer Preview will provide various tools and features for users to test and further augment their apps. There will be SDK with new APIs, emulators, device system images, documentation, samples and build tools to run apps on supported Nexus devices. Android will also provide a launcher, apps that support app shortcuts, and apps and a keyboard that support keyboard images.
The Android Developer Preview will initially be available for the Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P and Pixel C products. Support for other devices will come as the preview progresses. They expect the Android 7.1.x platform to ultimately launch early in December 2016. They will roll out updates to the full lineup of supported devices, namely the Nexus 6, Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Nexus 9, Nexus Player, Pixel C, Pixel and Pixel XL devices and other Android One products.
ArsTechnica revealed that the Google support list stated that the Nexus 6 and Nexus 9 will no longer be guaranteed to continue receiving updates after October 2016, but these will still receive Android 7.1. The new Pixel launcher, Google Assistant and other aesthetic and functional changes will not be available on Android 7.1 on the Nexus devices. Users are advised to download the Android 7.1 Developer Preview so they can begin testing and optimizing their apps. More updates and details on Android 7.1 Nougat are expected soon.
