Google began rolling out version 7 of Android, known as Nougat, to Nexus devices on 22 August.
The latest version of Android was first revealed to developers back in March, and according to Google it brings 250 major new features.
Here are some of the most important ones.
1. Multi-window
The new key productivity features include multi-window, a feature that allows apps to be run side-by-side, with the size of each app’s window customisable. For example, a user could watch a video on YouTube while taking notes using Evernote.
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2. Direct reply
This feature aims to make it quicker and more convenient to respond to notifications. Rather than always having to open an application to respond to a new message, users will be able to reply directly through the notifications page.
Notifications are also bundled together to make them easier to organise.
3. Quick switch
Users can quickly switch between their two most recently used apps by double tapping the overview button.
4. Deeper doze
Since version 6.0, Android phones have had a Doze mode that can deferring CPU and network activities when a user leaves a device unplugged, stationary, and with the screen turned off.
Android devices will now be able to drop into lower power usage even when it is being jostled around, so even people on the move will see their power consumption reduced.
5. Quick settings
Users get easy access to Bluetooth, wi-fi and flashlight settings. These tiles are now moveable, so the user can build a menu customised to their requirements.
6. Location, location
Users can now set their locale settings to receive different content from applications. For example, this can include setting up search engines to show results in multiple languages.
7. Background updates
Rather than having to halt all activity during an Android update, Nougat brings in the capability to carry out these updates in the background. This means that users can continue working while the system optimises their apps.
8. File-based encryption
Nougat incorporates file-based encryption, which means that individual files and folders can be encrypted. This differs from block-level encryption, which encrypts the whole disk or entire sections of it.
9. Direct boot
This feature improves upon the current booting system, making the device boot up more quickly. Apps also run securely even before you unlock your device when your device reboots.
10. Express yourself
And for those who are finding the current alphabet inadequate, the new Android comes with 72 new emojis, bringing the total to over 1500.
