Android 7.1: What's New and Improved?

Source: Arstechnica.com

Introduction to Android 7.1

Overview of Android 7.1

Android 7.1, also known as Nougat, is a version of the Android operating system. It follows Android 7.0 and brings several new features and improvements. Nougat is part of the Android ecosystem, which includes various versions like Marshmallow, Oreo, and Pie. Each version builds on the previous one, adding new functionalities and enhancements.

Importance of Updates

Updates like Android 7.1 are crucial for both users and developers. For users, updates bring new features, better performance, and improved security. Developers benefit from new tools and APIs that allow them to create better apps. Regular updates ensure that devices stay current with the latest technology and security standards.

Key Takeaways:

Android 7.1 makes using your phone easier and more fun with cool features like app shortcuts, image keyboard support, and new professional emojis.
This update also boosts security and performance, making your phone faster and safer, while adding awesome multitasking and camera shortcuts for capturing moments quickly.

Key Features of Android 7.1

App Shortcuts

App shortcuts were introduced in Android 7.1 to make accessing specific app functions quicker and easier. By long-pressing an app icon, users can see a list of shortcuts that take them directly to certain parts of the app. For example, long-pressing the messaging app might show shortcuts to start a new message or open recent conversations. This feature enhances user experience by saving time and reducing the number of taps needed to perform common tasks.

Image Keyboard Support

Android 7.1 introduced image keyboard support, allowing users to insert stickers, GIFs, and other images directly from the keyboard. This makes conversations more expressive and fun. Instead of switching between apps to find the perfect image, users can now do it all from the keyboard, making communication smoother and more engaging.

New Professional Emoji

The addition of new professional emoji in Android 7.1 aimed to make emoji more inclusive and representative of different professions. Users can now choose from a variety of professional emoji, such as doctors, teachers, and chefs, in different genders and skin tones. This update helps users express themselves more accurately and inclusively in their messages.

Enhanced Live Wallpaper Metadata

Live wallpapers got a boost in Android 7.1 with enhanced metadata. This improvement allows live wallpapers to provide more information about themselves, such as their name, author, and description. It makes it easier for users to find and choose live wallpapers that suit their preferences. Enhanced metadata also helps developers showcase their work more effectively.

Developer-Focused Improvements

Improved VR Thread Scheduling

Android 7.1 brought significant improvements in VR thread scheduling. This means that VR apps can now run more smoothly because the system prioritizes VR tasks. By giving VR apps more control over CPU resources, users experience fewer lags and a more immersive experience. Developers can create more complex and engaging VR environments without worrying about performance hiccups.

Storage Manager Intent

The storage manager intent feature in Android 7.1 helps users manage their device storage more efficiently. Apps can now prompt users to clear up space when storage is running low. This is particularly useful for apps that handle large files, like photo or video editors. Users get a more seamless experience as they are guided to free up space without having to dig through settings.

APIs for Carriers and Calling Apps

New APIs for carriers and calling apps were introduced, allowing for better integration and functionality. Carriers can now offer more customized services, and calling apps can provide features like visual voicemail or spam detection more easily. This means users get a richer and more tailored communication experience, while developers have more tools to innovate in the telecom space.

User Experience Enhancements

Multi-Window Support

One of the standout features of Android 7.1 is multi-window support. This allows users to run two apps side by side, making multitasking a breeze. Whether you're watching a video while texting a friend or browsing the web while taking notes, multi-window support makes it all possible. This feature is especially useful on larger screens, like tablets, where there's more room to work with.

Round Icon Resources

Android 7.1 introduced round icon resources to give apps a more consistent look across different devices. This means that app icons can now be displayed in a round shape, matching the aesthetic of many modern Android devices. For users, this results in a cleaner and more unified home screen. Developers benefit by having a standardized way to present their app icons, enhancing brand recognition.

Demo User Hint

The demo user hint feature helps users understand how to use demo mode on their devices. Demo mode is useful for showcasing a device's features without personal data getting in the way. With this hint, users can easily activate demo mode and see a clean, pre-configured setup. This is particularly handy for retail displays or when lending a device to someone else.

Security and Performance

Security Updates

Android 7.1 brought a bunch of security updates to keep your device safe. These updates fixed vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit. They also included patches for known issues, making your phone more secure. Regular security updates are crucial because they protect personal data and ensure that apps run smoothly without any security risks.

Performance Enhancements

Performance got a boost too. Android 7.1 included optimizations that made apps load faster and run more efficiently. This meant less waiting and smoother transitions between apps. Battery life saw improvements as well, thanks to better power management. These enhancements made everyday tasks quicker and more enjoyable.

Compatibility and Support

New Screen Densities for Wear Devices

Wear OS devices benefited from support for new screen densities. This meant that smartwatches and other wearables could display sharper images and text. Developers could create apps that looked better and were easier to read on different devices. This update made wearables more versatile and user-friendly.

Backward Compatibility

Android 7.1 didn't leave older devices behind. It maintained backward compatibility with older phones and apps. This meant users could enjoy new features without worrying about their favorite apps not working. Developers also appreciated this because they didn't have to rewrite their apps for the new version. Compatibility ensured a smooth transition to the updated system.

Additional Features

Camera Shortcuts

New camera shortcuts made taking photos quicker and easier. Users could double-tap the power button to open the camera instantly. This feature was handy for capturing moments on the fly without fumbling through menus. It made the camera more accessible and user-friendly.

Other Notable Features

Android 7.1 included other minor but useful features. For instance, there were improvements in touch and display responsiveness. The update also brought better support for different languages and regions. These small changes added up to a more polished and enjoyable user experience.

Final Thoughts on Android 7.1

Android 7.1 Nougat really brought a lot to the table, boosting both user experience and developer capabilities. From nifty features like app shortcuts and image keyboard support to key improvements in VR thread scheduling and storage management, this update aimed to make everyone’s life easier. Security got a serious upgrade, keeping devices safe from threats while performance tweaks ensured everything ran smoothly. With support for new screen densities on wearables and backward compatibility, no one got left in the dust. All in all, Android 7.1 showcased how technology could become more intuitive, inclusive, and enjoyable in everyday use.

Overview of Android 7.1 Features

Android 7.1 introduces App Shortcuts, letting users quickly access specific actions within apps directly from the home screen. Night Light reduces blue light, making it easier on the eyes during nighttime use. Image Keyboard Support allows users to insert stickers, GIFs, and images directly from the keyboard. Storage Manager helps free up space by identifying and removing unused files. Seamless Updates enable system updates to install in the background without interrupting usage. Fingerprint Gestures provide quick access to notifications and other functions by swiping on the fingerprint sensor.

Compatibility and Requirements for Android 7.1

To enjoy Android 7.1, your device needs to meet certain requirements. First, it should have at least 2GB of RAM. This ensures smooth multitasking and app performance. Next, a 64-bit processor is essential. Devices with older 32-bit processors won't support the update.

Your device should also have a minimum of 8GB internal storage. This space is necessary for the operating system and essential apps. Additionally, a 720p display or higher is recommended. Lower resolution screens might not display the new features properly.

Compatibility-wise, Google Pixel and Nexus devices are the first to receive Android 7.1. Specifically, Pixel, Pixel XL, Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Nexus 6, Nexus 9, and Pixel C are on the list. Other manufacturers like Samsung, LG, HTC, and Sony will roll out updates for their flagship models gradually.

To check if your device supports Android 7.1, go to Settings > About Phone > System Updates. If an update is available, follow the prompts to install it. Ensure your device is connected to Wi-Fi and has at least 50% battery before starting the update process. This prevents interruptions and potential issues during installation.

How to Set Up New Android 7.1 Features

Power on your device.
Connect to Wi-Fi by selecting your network and entering the password.
Sign in to your Google account or create one if needed.
Accept the terms and conditions.
Set up a screen lock using a PIN, pattern, or fingerprint.
Restore apps and data from a previous device if desired.
Customize your home screen by adding widgets and apps.
Update your device to the latest software version.
Explore settings to adjust preferences like display brightness and sound.
Install essential apps from the Google Play Store.

Tips for Using Android 7.1 Features

Quick Switch: Double-tap the recent apps button to switch between your two most recent apps. This is super handy when multitasking.

App Shortcuts: Long-press an app icon to see shortcuts for common tasks. For example, long-press the camera app to jump straight into selfie mode.

Night Light: Activate Night Light to reduce blue light, making it easier on your eyes during nighttime use. Find it in the display settings.

GIF Keyboard: Use the built-in GIF keyboard in messaging apps. Just tap the emoji button, then switch to GIFs to add some fun to your conversations.

Restart Option: Hold down the power button, and you'll see a restart option. This makes rebooting your device quicker.

Storage Manager: Enable the storage manager to automatically remove old files and free up space. Go to settings, then storage, and turn it on.

Fingerprint Gestures: If your device supports it, use fingerprint gestures to quickly access notifications or open the app drawer. Check your settings under gestures.

Split-Screen Mode: Open two apps side-by-side by holding the recent apps button. Perfect for watching videos while browsing the web.

Data Saver: Turn on Data Saver to restrict background data usage. This helps save on your data plan. Find it in the network settings.

Customizable Quick Settings: Drag down the notification shade, tap the edit icon, and rearrange your quick settings tiles to fit your needs.

Troubleshooting Common Android 7.1 Problems

Battery draining quickly? Check for apps running in the background. Go to Settings > Battery to see which apps use the most power. Close or uninstall unnecessary ones.

Phone running slow? Clear the cache. Head to Settings > Storage > Cached data, then clear it. Restarting the device can also help.

Wi-Fi connection dropping? Forget the network and reconnect. Go to Settings > Wi-Fi, tap the network name, then select "Forget." Reconnect by entering the password again.

Apps crashing? Update them. Open the Play Store, tap the menu, then "My apps & games." Update all apps. If issues persist, uninstall and reinstall the problematic app.

Bluetooth not pairing? Turn Bluetooth off and on. If that fails, restart both devices. Ensure they are close together and try pairing again.

Screen freezing? Perform a soft reset. Hold the power button until the device restarts. If the problem continues, check for software updates in Settings > System > Software update.

Storage full? Delete unused apps, photos, and videos. Move files to cloud storage or an SD card. Check Settings > Storage to see what's taking up space.

Notifications not showing? Check notification settings. Go to Settings > Apps & notifications > Notifications. Ensure notifications are enabled for each app.

Overheating? Avoid using the phone while charging. Close background apps and give the device a break. Remove any case to help it cool down.

Touchscreen unresponsive? Clean the screen with a soft, dry cloth. Remove any screen protector. If the issue persists, restart the device.

Privacy and Security in Android 7.1

Android 7.1 brings several security and privacy improvements. User data is now better protected with file-based encryption, ensuring each user's data remains separate and secure. Direct Boot allows apps to run securely even before the device is unlocked, enhancing protection during startup.

To maintain privacy, always update your device to the latest software version. Enable two-factor authentication for added security. Use strong passwords and avoid using the same password across different accounts. Regularly review app permissions to ensure apps only access necessary information. Be cautious of public Wi-Fi; use a VPN to keep your data safe.

Lastly, consider using privacy-focused apps and browsers that limit data tracking.

Comparing Android 7.1 with Other Versions

Pros:

App Shortcuts: Similar to iOS's 3D Touch, Android 7.1 introduces app shortcuts for quick actions.
Night Light: Comparable to Apple's Night Shift, this feature reduces blue light to ease eye strain.
Improved Storage Management: Like Windows Phone's storage sense, Android 7.1 offers better tools to manage space.
Image Keyboard Support: Much like iOS, users can now send stickers and GIFs directly from the keyboard.
Restart Option: Finally includes a restart option in the power menu, similar to many custom Android ROMs.

Cons:

Limited Device Availability: Initially available only on Google devices, unlike iOS updates which roll out to all supported devices simultaneously.
Fragmentation: Android updates often take longer to reach all devices due to manufacturer and carrier delays, unlike iOS which updates all devices at once.
Battery Optimization: While improved, still not as efficient as iOS's battery management.
Voice Assistant: Google Assistant is good but some users prefer the integration and capabilities of Apple's Siri or Amazon's Alexa.
Security Updates: Although better, Android's security updates are not as timely as iOS's regular updates.

Alternatives:

iOS: For those who prefer a more unified and timely update system.
Windows Phone: Offers unique features like Live Tiles and deep integration with Microsoft services.
Custom ROMs: For advanced users, custom ROMs like LineageOS can provide more frequent updates and additional features.