We have finally learned the list of Android 7.1 Developer Preview supported devices, which includes the Nexus 5X and 6P phones. However, what we are more interested in is the lack of tablet support, as it’s only the Pixel C that will have the new beta at this time.
However, try not to worry too much, as the supported devices (seen here) for the Android 7.1 Nougat public release will be more than just three. These will include the Pixel, Pixel XL, Nexus 9, Android One devices and the Nexus Player. You will notice from that list that the Nexus 7 tablet is not there, and so more than likely will receive 7.1 support at a later date.
So what can you expect from Android 7.1? Well firstly there’s support for the Daydream VR platform, along with faster A/B system updates. There are also some other new features that we did not know about, and those are the ability for developers to surface key actions of their apps directly in the launcher, this will allow for messaging apps to come with shortcuts when texting friends, or even get to directions of your favourite places within Google Maps.
In terms of the design, things will stay pretty much the same, and so is just an evolution of the current version, so a lot like iOS 10.1 in that respect, as it’s all about ironing out a few things to make the platform run better.
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