In a significant development, Google has rolled out Android 7.1.1 Nougat update to the flagship Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones. Google will also push the update to Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Nexus 6, Nexus 9, Nexus Player, Pixel C, and Android One handsets within the next few days.
The newly released Android 7.1.1 Nougat update offers new features, enhanced optimizations, and bug fixes as part of the incremental update. The update comes with app shortcuts, round icons in addition to image keyboard support. Moreover, the update also ships with a new set of emojis in a bid to promote gender equality.
Commenting on the development, Dave Burke, vice president of engineering at Google disclosed that developers should update the apps by incorporating all the latest features included with the Android 7.1.1 update.
Image keyboard display images and animated GIFs
The new image keyboard shortcuts display images and animated GIFs, which you can directly access from the keyboard. You should note that the app shortcut feature will work similar to that of the 3D Touch in Apple. If you long press on an app icon, it will display several actions. It is possible to navigate the relevant apps without opening them.
Responding to media, Agustin Fonts, product manager, Android revealed that the company has included gender counterparts for emoji in Android 7.1.1. Previously, it had only male and female categories. The latest update has added female welders and men getting haircuts. Fonts also added that the wide range of new emojis integrated with the Pixel smartphones is extended to all handsets running Android 7.1.1.
Android 7.1.1 update available via OTA and manual
Your Pixel and Pixel XL handsets will be automatically updated OTA if you have enrolled in the Android Beta Program. You can also manually download the required file and flash it with your handset in case if you are not willing to perform an automated update. We would recommend you to download the update via Wi-Fi.
In addition to the latest Android Nougat update, Google also pushed the Android 7.1.1 source code to the Android Open Source Project. This will help phone manufacturers such as Xiaomi and LeEco to build their own User Interfaces based on the latest Nougat update.
