Google Nexus 2016 release date and features: Everything we know so far

Google is gearing up to release new Nexus 2016 smartphones along with Android 7.0 Nougat. Normally, with each new release of Android, Google will release new hardware devices like the Nexus 7 tablet. If you look at the Nexus 5X and 6P, it was released during the launch of Android Marshmallow. According to reports, the search engine giant is planning to release two more smartphones reportedly codenamed Marlin and Sailfish. In April, the popular leakster Evan Blass aka @evleaks had revealed on Twitter that two smartphones will be released by HTC. Since Google is planning to release Android 7.0 Nougat within the next few days, we can expect Google to launch the new devices before November.

Over the last several years, Google had established partnerships with companies like HTC, Asus, Samsung, Motorola, LG and Huawei. Howe+ver, after a long gap, Google appears to be heading back to HTC for the development of two new Nexus smartphones.

The specifications and features of the upcoming devices emerged from Android Police in June. The tech portal confirmed that the devices are manufactured by HTC and will bear a premium aluminum design, enhanced display and improved battery life. This means the smaller device will not be a budget smartphone like Nexus 5X.

Recently, a popular tech portal had disclosed a render of the new Nexus 2016 device. Even though the leaked render was not that of the actual image, analysts are of the opinion that the new Nexus will look similar with minor variations.

Google Nexus 2016 Software features

According to rumors, the new Nexus 2016 will feature a new Google button instead of an entire search bar including a swipe-up gesture for the app tray. A recently released teaser reveals that the application launcher button has disappeared completely.

Nexus launcher

Nexus 2016 (Marlin) Specifications

The Nexus 6 aka Marlin will be a decent upgrade to the Nexus 6P despite small display size. The device will not offer front-facing speakers but will have a powerful processor, enhanced camera including a battery with fast charging support. You can also expect a brushed aluminum finish.

  • 5.5-inch 2560 x 1440 Quad-HD AMOLED display
  • Quad-core Snapdragon Processor (821 or 823), 4GB of RAM
  • 32 or 128GB non-expandable storage (no 64GB)
  • Android 7.0 Nougat
  • 12 Megapixel Rear Camera with OIS, 8MP front camera
  • Fingerprint scanner (rear)
  • Bottom facing speaker
  • USB Type-C port for fast charging
  • 3450mAh battery
  • 2016 Nexus 5 Specs (Sailfish)

Earlier, there were reports that the smaller version of the 2016 Nexus will also offer similar specifications but will have a trimmed display of 5-inch. Moreover, the device will also be cheaper and will be suitable for budget users. Interestingly, the device is rumored to be named as Nexus 5 instead of Nexus 6. Similar to that of the Marlin, this model will be equipped with a bottom facing the speaker.

Nexus 2016 (Sailfish) Specifications

  • 5-inch FHD AMLED display
  • Quad-core Snapdragon Processor (821 or 823) with 4GB of RAM
  • 32 or 128GB of non-expandable storage (ditched 16GB)
  • Android 7.0 Nougat
  • 12 Megapixel Rear Camera with OIS, 8MP front camera
  • Fingerprint scanner
  • Bottom facing speaker
  • USB Type-C port for fast charging
  • 2770mAh battery

Recently, @evleaks took to Twitter and revealed that the smaller Nexus will have a 5-inch FHD display with a Snapdragon 820 processor. He also posted a picture with software ROM.

The features and specifications we posted above are part of the on-going rumors about 2016 Nexus device. We will constantly monitor the developments. Stay tuned with PC Tablet.

About the author

Mary Woods

Mary nurses a deep passion for any kind of technical or technological happenings all around the globe. She is currently putting up in Miami. Internet is her forte and writing articles on the net for modern day technological wonders are her only hobby. You can find her at mary@pc-tablet.com.

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