Android Nougat OS - what is it and when will I get it?

The name of the latest Android operating system was revealed yesterday and there are plenty of new features for users to chew on.
In keeping with tradition, the latest Android OS will be named after a sugary snack. Shutterstock

sIn keeping with tradition, the latest Android OS will be named after a sugary snack. Shutterstock

s
In keeping with tradition, the latest Android OS will be named after a sugary snack. Shutterstock s

Back in May, Google asked the Android community to help name version 7.0 of the software, which had previously been known only as Android N.

The people have spoken and the new OS is codenamed Nougat. It is expected to replace version 6.0, known as Marshmallow later this year.

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Google traditionally uses sweet treats to codename its OS updates, with previous examples including Cupcake, Donut, Eclair, Froyo (Frozen Yogurt), Gingerbread, Honeycomb, Ice Cream Sandwich, Jelly Bean, KitKat and Lollipop.

What features will it have?

Nougat will introduce a split-screen window mode - which will allow users to run two apps on screen at the same time, an improved power-saving system, new emojis and high-level graphics support on some devices.

When can I get it?

Google has suggested that the new software could be available as early as quarter three this year - meaning some users could get their hands sticky as early as September.

Unlike Apple, Google’s software is installed on handsets manufactured by a huge number of different brands, so software updates generally take a long time to rollout across all supported handsets.

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Further complicating matters, once the handset makers have tested and approved each update, phone networks have to do the same thing - meaning which network you use will also impact on when you receive the latest upgrade.

Google’s own handset - the Nexus - is always first in line to receive OS updates, so unless you have one of those, it is likely you’ll have to wait slightly longer.

It took Samsung users five months to receive the last update, with Marshmallow rolled out in September 2015 but the Galaxy Note 5 receiving its update in March the following year. If you’re a Samsung owner then, don’t expect an update until Spring 2017 at the earliest.

Likewise, Blackberry have proven slow in the past and a 2017 date is likely for rolling out Nougat.

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Delays in rolling out updates on top-end HTC handsets have been slightly better in the past and HTC users could see an update as early as Christmas. Huawei and LG Android phones - on past experience - may also see updates before this year draws to a close.

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