Android Nougat: What’s in there?

Android 7.0 Nougat has started rolling out across Nexus devices and is being touted as one of the best OS upgrades by Google. With over 250 major features, Nougat provides users with multiple ways to customize their phones to fit their personality.

In words of Sameer Samat, VP of Product Management, Android & Google Play, “Google has taken a different approach to build and launch Nougat which was announced earlier this year.For starters, we invited developers to take a sneak peek at Android N back in March, so they could bring their apps to the new platform earlier. Android Nougat reflects input from thousands of fans and developers all over the world. There are over 250 major features in Android Nougat.”

So let’s have a precise look at what Nougat brings new for Android users.

Security updates: Android 7.0 Nougat comes with powerful covers of security and encryption to keep data private and secure. For new devices coming this fall, Google has also added new features like Seamless updates, File-based encryption, and Direct Boot.

• Seamless updates: New Android devices with Nougat can install software updates in the background which means you won't have to wait while your device installs the update and optimizes all your apps for the new version. And for current Nexus users, software updates now install much faster, so you won't have to wait for minutes while your device reboots.

• File-based encryption: Android Nougat can better isolate and protect files for individual users on your device.

• Direct Boot: Direct Boot helps your device startup faster and apps run securely even before you unlock your device when your device reboots.

Makes the experience more personal: With Android Nougat, Android users will have more ways to personalize their smartphones including:

• Expanded emoji: There are now over 1,500 different emoji built into Android, including 72 new ones. So, express yourself with added fun.

• Quick Settings controls: Quick Settings gives you easy access to things like Bluetooth, WiFi, and the all-important flashlight. With Android Nougat, you can actually control what files go where, and move them around to fit one’s needs.

• Multi-locale support: Apps can tailor their content based on local settings. For instance, if someone speaks multiple languages, then search engines can show results in each of those languages.

• Call blocking: The way that Android is handling blocked calls is improving. The numbers you block from texting and calling can now be shared with other apps so the same numbers will be blocked across all the services you use.

Enhanced Productivity: Whether you’re responding to work emails or making plans with friends, Android 7.0 Nougat helps you multitask with ease with new features like Multi-window, Direct reply, and Quick switch.

• Multi-window: Run two apps side-by-side. The windows are resizable, too, by simply dragging the divider.

• Direct Reply: Reply directly to notifications without having to open any app.

• Quick Switch: Switch between your two most recently used apps by simply double tapping the Overview button.

Better Battery life: Starting with the release of Android Marshmallow last year, Google has been making the battery smarter. With Android 7.0 Nougat the Doze feature has been made even extra dozier. Android devices can now drop into lower power usage when it’s getting jostled around in your pocket or bag while on the move.

More immersive: Android 7.0 Nougat is designed with immersive experiences in mind—including support for VulkanTM (an advanced 3D rendering API) and Daydream (Google’s platform for mobile virtual reality).

• VulkanTM: Games will now leap to life thanks to high-speed, next-generation graphics — all powered by your device’s multi-core processor.

• Daydream: Android 7.0 Nougat is ready to transport users to virtual worlds with Daydream-ready phones, headsets, and controllers — all coming later this year.